The Effect Of Covıd-19 On Attention Of Neurocognitive Functions İn Healthcare Professionals

COVID-19 And Attention Deficit

Abstract

Aim: This research aims to investigate the long-term effect of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19) on attention, which is considered an essential neurocognitive function.

Material and Method: In this cross-sectional study, the study group consisted of healthcare professionals who are currently working at the Training and Research Hospital and who have had COVID-19 disease before. One hundred seventy-four individuals (female: 109, male: 65) met the inclusion criteria. The General Health Questionnaire was used for general health status, and the Attention Deficit section of the Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Scale was used to assess attention deficit.

Results: Of the 174 healthcare workers who had COVID-19, 113 (64.9%) had attention deficit. Attention deficit was mild in 47 (41.5%), moderate in 40 (35.39%), and severe in 26 (23%) (mean±std= 2.36 ±0.64, 6.85 ±2.31, 14.96 ±3.94, respectively). When attention deficit and general health status were evaluated in terms of gender, smoking, hospitalization, pulmonary infection, and vaccination status, no significant relationship was found. Attention and general health status were worse in those who did not receive treatment during the COVID-19 period (p=0.009, p=0.029, respectively)

Conclusion: In our study, a high rate of attention deficit was detected in healthcare workers who had COVID-19. In addition, attention deficits were more common in those who did not receive treatment during the COVID-19 period than in those who did. Attention deficits can lead to severe problems for people who do risky work, such as healthcare workers. For this reason, necessary research should be done, and necessary precautions should be taken.