DefinePK

Research Objective

To analyze the experience of the surgical team in COVID-19 in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan.

Methodology

An analytical observational study was conducted in the Department of Surgery, Tertiary Care Hospital, Sialkot, Pakistan, from March to September 2020. Data was collected from surgeons, residents, internees, paramedical staff, and other surgical team members using a simple, 6-question questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS-23.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A[Ethical Approval] --> B[Formulate 6-question Questionnaire];
    B --> C[Distribute Questionnaire to Surgical Team Groups];
    C --> D[Collect Completed Questionnaires];
    D --> E[Tabulate Data];
    E --> F[Analyze Data using SPSS 23];
    F --> G[Interpret Results];
    G --> H[Draw Conclusions];                    

Discussion

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted surgical departments, necessitating the triage of consultations, admissions, and procedures. Surgical teams adapted to new roles and responsibilities, including working in isolation and COVID-19 wards. While training and the use of PPEs enhanced motivation and competencies, fear of infection and prolonged duty hours were significant concerns. Despite these challenges, surgical teams continued to manage trauma, life-threatening emergencies, and oncological cases while adhering to PPE principles.

Key Findings

- 91.27% of surgical team members received satisfactory training to handle COVID-19 cases.
- 80.70% of participants feared contracting the disease while working in isolation and COVID-19 wards.
- 76.36% were well-adjusted to their newly assigned duties.
- 85.45% of surgical team members experienced stress related to prolonged duty hours (12 hours a day).
- 83.63% participated in the management of surgeries during this period.

Conclusion

The surgical team demonstrated remarkable participation and adaptation to new duties during the COVID-19 pandemic. While stress and fear of contracting the disease were prevalent, the team effectively managed critical surgical cases by adhering to safety protocols and utilizing PPEs.

Fact Check

- The study period was from March to September 2020.
- A total of 275 surgical team members participated in the study.
- 91.27% of surgical team members reported satisfactory training for COVID-19 cases.

Mind Map