Stress and associated factors among Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Mmetropolis.

Abstract

Background : Ruamkatanyu rescue workers is a special properties and especial individual occupation. They are working with injured and emergency patients which may have additional work danger that have effect on physical, emotional and any pressure. However, the prevalence and predictors of stress in this group of subject have not been studied. This aim of study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of stress among Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Metropolis.

Objective : To study stress and associated factors among Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Metropolis.

Design : A cross – sectional descriptive study.

Setting : Ruamkatanyu rescue foundation in Bangkok Metropolis.

Materials and Methods : Data collected in September – December, 2009 from two hundred and thirty–eight Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Metropolis were approached for their informed consent. The assessed instruments were demographic data questionnaire, occupational stress and burnout questionnaire, quality of life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF-THAI), the personal resource questionnaire and occupational stress questionnaire.

Results : This study found that 52.1% of Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Metropolis had a stress which can be categorized into 3 groups; 36.2% had high occupational stress 15.1% had burnout and 0.8% had burnout with depression. The factors which significantly associated with stress at p < 0.05 were education level, where as the factors which significantly associated with stress at p < 0.01 were current substance use, perception of social support, Quality of Life score (environmental domain), working condition (decision latitude domain and work environment domain).

Conclusion : Consequentially, it was found that majority of Ruamkatanyu rescue workers in Bangkok Metropolis had stress. Awareness of risk factors of stress in this group of workers will aid mental health personnel to identify those in need of additional support and/or mental health service.