The effectiveness of a supportive training program on stress, anxiety, and depression of patients with COVID-19 hospitalized in Najaf hospitals.

Abstract

Introduction: Hospitalization in the COVID-19 intensive care unit (ICU) induces psychological pressures on patients, including anxiety and depression, which disrupt their functioning. Patient education and support can facilitate recovery and potentially alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of a supportive training program on stress, anxiety, and depression among COVID-19 patients hospitalized in Najaf hospitals.

Method: This randomized controlled trial was conducted in 2021, involving 60 hospitalized COVID-19 patients diagnosed based on clinical symptoms and RT-PCR tests. Eligible patients were randomly assigned to either the control or intervention group using SPSS software-generated random sequence. At the beginning of the study, both groups completed demographic information forms and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). The control group received standard care, while the intervention group participated in a supportive educational program in addition to routine care. On the fifth day of hospitalization, both groups completed the DASS-21 again. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, independent t-tests, Mann-Whitney, and Wilcoxon tests.

Results: The two groups were homogeneous regarding gender, place of residence, marital status, and income (p > 0.05). On the fifth day, a statistically significant reduction in stress, anxiety, and depression levels was observed in the intervention group compared to the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: A supportive educational program in the COVID ward can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression among patients. This program is feasible for implementation by nurses without additional costs. Future research could explore the long-term effects of such interventions and assess patient satisfaction with the educational program.

Trial registration: This study was registered in the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (no. IRCT20140625018231N1) on 05/11/2021.