Healthcare workers’ knowledge, risk perception, safety-relevant practices, and work situation during the COVID-19 pandemic: A quantitative survey from Switzerland

Abstract

Objective: To determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers and healthcare students in higher education and to assess their clinical knowledge, media use, risk perception, perception of governmental measures, and adherence to preventive guidelines to provide policymakers with field-based evidence.

Methods: This cross-sectional quantitative survey was conducted by two-stage cluster sampling among Swiss healthcare workers, who performed patient care during the first pandemic wave, and who also pursued an education at a university of applied sciences at the same time (a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in nursing or an executive degree in healthcare). 75 individuals participated between 5th May and 1st June 2020. Their data was analyzed by bivariate hypothesis testing and multiple logistic regression.

Results: Considerable levels of task-related and emotional stress were prevalent, accompanied by a large proportion of respondents who did not have sufficient protective materials or necessary decisions in place to effectively protect themselves or others from infection with COVID-19. Knowledge was considerably limited, especially regarding the efficacy of standard hygiene as a preventive measure. The preparation of the government and the healthcare sector was perceived as insufficient.

Conclusions: Comprehensive management of infodemic challenges and foresighted development of education, human resources, clinical processes, and protective materials are highly recommended.