Evaluation of selected factors influencing sleep disorders in paramedics during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Introduction: Sleep disorders can develop as a result of exposure to stressors. The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic was an additional source of stress for paramedics, due to the fear of the unknown nature of the new pathogen. The main aim of this study was to identify factors influencing the development of sleep disorders among paramedics working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods: This was a cross-sectional, anonymous, voluntary, online survey conducted on social networks among paramedics working during the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland from 10/11/2020 to 14/01/2021. The survey included 387 participants, the majority of whom were men (72.35%). A proprietary questionnaire and standardized scales were used to identify risk factors: Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Results: Among all participants, there were 107 (27.65%) women and 280 (72.35%) men. Significantly higher scores of the analyzed scales were observed in the female gender. Based on the AIS scale, mild sleep disorders were found in 3.6% of women and 2.9% of men. Excessive sleepiness on the Epworth scale was assessed in more than 70% of women and 58.8% of men working in Emergency Medical Teams (EMTs). Conclusions: The main factors influencing the development of sleep disorders were female gender, use of sleep aids and not having a life partner. In contrast, older age and longer job tenure, being married, and having good relationships with family members had a protective effect.