Perceived stress & sentiments of housemen starting work during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Singapore

Abstract

Introduction: The transition from medical student to houseman is well recognised as a stressful period for newly qualified doctors. This stress is likely to be heightened when the transition occurs during a pandemic. We aimed to evaluate the perceived stress levels of housemen as they begin housemanship and explore their sentiments and preparedness in starting work amidst the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: Housemen starting work at a tertiary institution in Singapore in May 2020 completed the following: (1) Perceived Stress Scale, (2) open-ended questions on perceived challenges and concerns and (3) questionnaire on preparedness and confidence in starting work. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data and modified thematic analysis performed for qualitative data. Results: Sixty-one housemen participated. Thirty-five (57.4%) reported high perceived stress. The themes for perceived challenges in this transition included coping with constant change, lack of reliable information from authorities, dealing with disappointment, physical fatigue, and loss of autonomy. The themes for concerns in beginning housemanship elicited relate to clinical competence, transitioning into new responsibilities, risk of infection with COVID-19, senior expectations, physical fatigue and training-related concerns. Despite these challenges and concerns, housemen were prepared to begin work during this pandemic. Conclusion: Housemen transitioning during this pandemic experienced additional stressors and unique challenges pertaining to working in a pandemic. Encouragingly, they remain prepared to start work. Institutions and departments should be mindful of the specific concerns and challenges so that appropriate support can be put in place to support these junior doctors.