Clinical and epidemiological factors associated with post-traumatic stress in medical interns during the COVID-19 pandemic in a Peruvian hospital, 2021

Introduction: post-traumatic stress is a potential psychological and behavioral consequence of exposure to a traumatic event, characterized by the inability to overcome an unpleasant experience. Medical students, especially during their internships, often encounter stressful situations and challenges. Objective: this study aims to investigate the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical interns and identify the clinical and epidemiological factors associated with PTSD. Methods: this cross-sectional observational study utilized the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptom Severity Scale and a validated form for clinical and epidemiological factors. The study was conducted with medical students from the Universidad Privada San Juan Bautista and Universidad Nacional San Luis Gonzaga. Data analysis was performed using SPSS Version 25. Results: this study revealed that 47,1 % of medical interns experienced low levels of post-traumatic stress, 42,5 % experienced moderate levels, and 10,3 % experienced high levels. Clinical and epidemiological factors that showed a statistically significant correlation (p<0,05) with post-traumatic stress included working extra shifts, caring for COVID-19 patients, having infected relatives, and experiencing harassment or verbal aggression from patients, colleagues, or other hospital staff. Conclusion: this study suggests that clinical and epidemiological factors, such as caring for COVID-19 patients, working extra shifts, and experiencing harassment or verbal aggression from patients or colleagues, are associated with post-traumatic stress in medical interns.