Investigation of occupational performance,anxiety,and work-life balance of healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study from Turkey

Abstract

Background

Healthcare workers experienced increased psychological distress, disrupted work-life balance, and changes in occupational performance during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective

The study aimed to investigate the occupational performance, work-life balance, and anxiety level of HWs (physicians, nurses, medical secretaries, health technicians, psychologists, social workers, and occupational therapists) employed in a pandemic hospital in Turkey.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 122 HWs during the second peak of the pandemic. Data were collected using the Work–Life Balance Scale, State–Trait Anxiety Inventory, and COPM. Independent samples t-tests and one-way ANOVA were performed. Effect sizes (Cohen's d, partial eta squared) were calculated to enhance interpretation.

Results

Female participants reported higher trait anxiety, while males demonstrated higher state anxiety and greater COPM satisfaction. Large effect sizes were found in COPM satisfaction across occupational groups, with medical secretaries showing notably lower satisfaction than other professions. Professional role differences were also observed in state anxiety and work–life balance scores.

Conclusions

Anxiety and occupational performance satisfaction varied across professions and gender during the pandemic. These findings highlight the need for tailored psychosocial support and occupational therapy–based interventions to improve HWs’ performance and well-being.