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. 2023 Aug 1;64(2):E161-E171.
doi: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2023.64.2.2995. eCollection 2023 Jun.

Sense of Coherence (SOC) of Italian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: analysis of associated factors

Maria Francesca Piazza  1 , Ludovica Munarin  2 , Duke Ashong  3 , Giulia Bellantonio  4 , Arianna Varnier  5 , Francesca Sanna  6 , Michela Muzzin  5 , Carmela Russo  2
Affiliations

Sense of Coherence (SOC) of Italian healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: analysis of associated factors

Maria Francesca Piazza et al. J Prev Med Hyg. .

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges for healthcare workers worldwide, potentially affecting their sense of coherence (SOC) and overall well-being. This study aimed to identify factors associated with different levels of SOC among healthcare workers, exploring demographic characteristics, work-related factors, changes in relationships and social habits, and the overall well-being.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 628 healthcare workers. SOC scores were assessed using a standardized questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed to identify associations between these factors and SOC.

Results: Healthcare workers had a lower average SOC score (mean: 57.1) compared to the national average in Italy (mean: 60.3). Younger age and shorter length of service were associated with a higher risk of low SOC (p < 0.0001). Healthcare workers in the northwestern regions of Italy had an increased risk of low SOC compared to their counterparts in the northeastern regions (p = 0.0336). Adverse pandemic-related experiences and worsening social relationships were also associated with a higher risk of low SOC (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions: This study highlights the unique challenges and stressors faced by healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and their impact on SOC. Age, length of service, geographic location, and social status were significant factors influencing SOC levels. Targeted interventions are needed to enhance SOC and well-being, particularly for younger and newly employed healthcare workers. Strategies promoting social connections, work-life balance, and psychological support services are crucial to support healthcare workers' resilience and coping abilities.

Keywords: COVID-19; COVID-19 pandemic; Healthcare workers; Italy; Sense of coherence (SOC).

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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