EFFECT OF COVID-19 CASES AMONG HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONALS IN SELECTED PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN LAGOS STATE, SOUTH WEST, NIGERIA

Abstract

This research study examines the impact of COVID-19 cases among healthcare professionals in seven selected public hospitals in Lagos State, Nigeria. The study employed a research design that included a mixed-method approach to gather data. The research population consisted of 850 healthcare providers actively engaged in ambulatory and inpatient services within the selected hospitals, as sourced from the office of the Director of Administration of these institutions. A sample size of 265 healthcare professionals was determined using Krejcie and Morgan's (1970) sample size determination table. The sampling method used a combination of simple random and multistage techniques. Data collection primarily relied on the use of questionnaires as instruments. Data obtained from the field was analyzed using descriptive statistics tools such as frequency, percentage, and mean. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was employed for data coding, analysis, and presentation. The findings reveal a generally positive response from respondents regarding various aspects related to the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare professionals and their practices. These aspects encompassed beliefs about COVID-19, the availability of necessary equipment in healthcare facilities, patient honesty, the communication skills and pandemic knowledge of healthcare providers, their commitment to saving lives, and their involvement in policy initiation. Furthermore, the data suggests that respondents generally concur with the effectiveness and implementation of diverse COVID-19 preventive measures within healthcare settings. These measures include social distancing, handwashing practices, regular training on preventive measures adherence, consistent use of personal protective equipment, and the promotion of hand sanitizer use and avoidance of handshakes. The mean scores for each item in the survey indicate a relatively high level of agreement among respondents. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in Lagos State, Nigeria. The findings underscore the importance of effective preventive measures and the resilience of healthcare providers in the face of this global health crisis.