Department of Microbiology, Mercy University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
Research Article
Irish Medical Laboratory Professionals and COVID-19: Response, Effect and Reflection on Future Practice
Author(s): James A. O’Connor and Brigid Lucey*
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a catastrophic effect on society and health worldwide. Medical laboratory professionals are to the fore in diagnosis and monitoring of treatment of COVID-19 patients. This survey examined the effect of COVID-19 on these scientists, also asking respondents to identify areas needing improvement. A voluntary, anonymous online survey was completed by 272 medical laboratory professionals in Ireland in May 2020. The respondents reflected all ages, grades, and disciplines in laboratories across Ireland and 87% of respondents reported a change to core working hours. Nearly half of respondents reported working more hours during the pandemic than before. Increasing workload complexity was reported by 70% of respondents. More than half of respondents reported increased work stress during the pandemic. Importantly, the pandemic has also resulted in improved work-base.. View more»