Perceptions and conducts of oral and maxillofacial surgeons during the COVID-19 pandemic: A qualitative study

Abstract

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are among the frontline healthcare workers and are classified as a high-risk group for COVID-19 infection; however, it has not yet been defined how these professionals were impacted. The aim of this study was to explore the conducts and perceptions of oral and maxillofacial surgeons during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil. Nine individuals, mean age 34.8 years, 66.6% men, were included in the study. A semi-structured interview with a qualitative approach was applied to professionals belonging to a messaging application group (WhatsApp). Content analysis was performed in the light of Hellerian theory in its daily theoretical framework for the interpretation of the memories reported by the participants. Four themes were identified. The lack of knowledge about COVID-19 and the fear of being contaminated during care were the main factors responsible for changes in the professionals’ work routine. An important point was the collective reflection of the participants about the increase in biosafety barriers, which ensured a greater sense of security. The need for social isolation to contain the virus was also described. As a result, there was a great distance between professionals and their families, which generated high levels of anxiety in the former. Repetitive reports of slowness and reduced attendance directly related to financial loss and aggravated stress were also highlighted. The findings of this study reveal that oral and maxillofacial surgeons had their professional-personal axis affected in terms of daily habits, family life and financial strain, aspects that were responsible for impacting stress and anxiety levels.