Abstract
Introduction The impact of lifestyle changes on the physical and mental health of emergency medicine staff has been a topic of increasing concern due to its effect on healthcare quality. This study aimed to assess the impact of lifestyle changes on emergency medicine staff's physical and mental health and their association with well-being at a major tertiary hospital. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2023 using an online questionnaire targeting Emergency Department (ED) staff in Prince Sultan Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The data were analyzed using SPSS software (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), with a Spearman correlation test and simple linear regression analysis used to determine the relationship between variables. Results The study included 149 participants, primarily male (59.7%) and predominantly within the age group of 30-39 years (59.1%). The sample consisted of ED nurses, residents, consultants, and paramedics, with over half having more than five years of experience in emergency medicine. Lifestyle changes were evident among participants, with 60.4% reporting worsened sleep patterns, 49.7% engaging in less physical activity, and 56.4% reporting poorer eating habits after joining the ED. Well-being assessments revealed moderate well-being scores (mean = 11.7 ± 5.61), with substantial variability in emotional states. Factors such as night sleep quality, physical activity, and nutrition were significantly correlated with well-being, with night sleep quality showing the strongest positive correlation (rho = 0.349, p < 0.001). Night sleep quality, nutritional intake, and physical activity are significant predictors of well-being, with night sleep quality being the strongest predictor (R(2) = 0.122, F = 20.39, p < 0.001). Conclusion The study underscores the need for targeted interventions to address lifestyle challenges faced by ED personnel, particularly focusing on improving sleep quality, promoting regular physical activity, and encouraging healthier nutritional habits.