Evaluation of the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on licensed nursing professionals in southern Santa Fe

Adrián Norberto de Paúl

SAP Nursing Depths Series, 2025

Abstract: Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic has left long-term sequelae, known as residual or prolonged COVID-19, which affect multiple organ systems and mental health. Nursing staff, being on the front line of containment, constitute a particularly vulnerable population. However, there are few studies that comprehensively address this problem in nursing professionals in Argentina.Objective: to analyze the health problems reported by registered nurses in the southern province of Santa Fe and their possible link to residual COVID-19.Method: a cross-sectional study with a mixed approach was conducted during the second half of 2025. A validated survey was administered to 358 nurses, assessing variables of mental and physical health, risk perception, and contextual characteristics. The analysis included descriptive statistics and a contextualized qualitative approach.Results: a high prevalence of mental health problems was identified: 48,3 % reported chronic fatigue, 34,6 % reported distressing memories, and 32,7 % reported excessive worries, with low treatment rates (≤9,2 %). In terms of physical health, difficulty concentrating (36,8 %), acid reflux (21,7 %), and high blood pressure (13,6 %) stood out. Paradoxically, 70,1 % did not express fear of reinfection. The study population was predominantly female (83,5 %) and had a high prevalence of multiple jobs (37,2 %).Conclusions: nurses have a significant burden of physical and mental morbidity consistent with residual COVID-19, exacerbated by critical healthcare neglect and precarious working conditions. These findings call for the urgent development of specific public policies for surveillance, comprehensive care, and occupational protection for this group.

Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:cwf:ndsart:nds2025215

DOI: 10.56294/nds2025215

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