Abstract
Aim During pandemic periods, psychogenic assessment and precautions are critical for patients requiring hospitalization. This study investigates the factors influencing anxiety levels in patients hospitalized for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and analyzes the impact of demographic, social, and medical variables on anxiety and depression levels. Methods The research involved 150 female and 180 male patients hospitalized and treated in the adult pandemic service of a tertiary referral center in Istanbul from November 5, 2020, to February 5, 2021. Data were collected from patients on the third day of hospitalization by face-to-face or room-phone interviews. The study employed a hospital anxiety and depression scale together with sociodemographic information forms. Results Statistically significant positive associations were observed between anxiety and depression scores and age, as well as the severity of shortness of breath. Conversely, negative associations were identified with educational status. Female patients exhibited significantly higher scores in both categories compared to men. Illiterate individuals exhibited significantly higher anxiety scores than those who graduated from middle and high school. Non-working individuals exhibited significantly higher anxiety and depression scores compared to their working counterparts. Patients with chronic kidney disease, malignancy, and chest pain exhibited significantly elevated anxiety and depression scores relative to those without these conditions. Regarding room type, anxiety and depression scores were significantly higher in single rooms compared to double rooms and in the presence of a companion compared to being alone. In the logistic regression model, the primary anxiety risk factors identified include non-working status, a negative perception of the effectiveness of protective equipment, occupancy of single rooms, and fear of death. The main risk factors for depression identified were fear of death, a heightened risk among individuals with insufficient knowledge compared to those with adequate knowledge, absence of companionship, and a lack of educational information. Conclusions In patients who were illiterate, unemployed, lacked sufficient knowledge, held negative perceptions about protective equipment, experienced fear of death, resided in a single room, and were without an accompanying individual, both infection management and mental health must be addressed with sensitivity, and programs for psychological support should be formulated. The study's findings could potentially guide future pandemics.