EPV149 - Unveiling Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Healthcare Workers Through Pre-Employment Evaluations

EPV149

Unveiling Anxiety and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in Healthcare Workers Through Pre-Employment Evaluations

N. Belhadj ^{1 2 3}, N. Gannoun ^{1 2 3}, R. Nakhli ^{1 2 3}, C. Sridi ^{1 2 3}, M. Bouhoula ^{2 3 4}, M. Makhloufi ^{2 3 4}, I. Kacem ^{2 3 4}, A. Aloui ^{2 3 4}, J. Ben Khelifa ⁵, F. Chelly ^{1 2 3}, I. Fki ^{1 2 3,*}, M. Maoua ^{1 2 3}

¹Occupational Medicine Department, Sahloul University Hospital, ²Faculty of Medicine of Sousse, University of Sousse, ³sousse, Research laboratory (LR19SP03), ⁴Occupational Medicine Department, Farhat Hached University Hospital of Sousse, ⁵Clinical Psychology Unit, Occupational Medicine Department, Sahloul University Hospital, sousse, Tunisia

 

Introduction: Introduction:

Anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are among the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide, with healthcare professionals being particularly vulnerable due to their constant exposure to high-stress environments. Pre-employment psychiatric evaluations provide a critical opportunity to identify such conditions, assess their potential impact on professional functioning, and implement preventive strategies.

Objectives: Objective: This study aimed to describe cases of anxiety disorders and PTSD identified during pre-employment medical assessments of healthcare workers.

Methods: Methods:

We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study based on the medical records of healthcare workers assessed in our Department of Occupational Medicine during 2024. Each pre-employment evaluation included a clinical examination and a structured psychological interview exploring psychiatric history, current psychological state, and potential occupational implications.

Results: Results:

A total of six healthcare workers were included (five women and one man), with a mean age of 31.5 years (range: 28–40). Reported conditions included specific phobias such as claustrophobia (1 case) and acrophobia (1 case), persistent stress and recurrent anxiety symptoms (2 cases), and post-traumatic stress disorder following bereavement or occupational exposure (2 cases). Among those with PTSD, one nurse required cognitive-behavioral therapy and grief management, and was declared fit for work with restrictions, specifically avoiding assignments in high-stress services such as emergency units. Another case required regular psychological follow-up. Despite the presence of these disorders, all participants were ultimately declared fit for work, with two cases requiring adapted recommendations or ongoing support.

Conclusions: Discussion/Conclusion:

The presence of anxiety disorders and PTSD among healthcare workers illustrates the psychological impact of high-stress medical environments. While these conditions were not a barrier to employment, they underline the importance of individualized assessment and workplace adjustments. Early screening and tailored support can help prevent relapse and maintain long-term professional performance.

 

Disclosure of Interest: None Declared