State of cerebral energy metabolism according to neuroenergy mapping data in medical workers

Abstract

Introduction. The impact of occupational stressors leaves negative consequences on the physiological and mental health in workers in socially significant occupations. Studying the neurophysiological characteristics of stress response in nurses will make it possible to predict the risks of developing maladaptive states that reduce the quality of life and the effectiveness of professional activity. The aim of the study is to identify the features of cerebral energy metabolism (CEM) and its adaptive reactivity in medical professionals to increase individual resistance to stress. Materials and methods. Features of cerebral energy metabolism were studied using the method of neuroenergy mapping (NEC), recording the constant potential level (CPL). The study involved thirty five female specialists with secondary medical education. Results. In medical workers elevated CPL values were established in 88.6% of cases. Accordingly, in 8.6% and 2.8% of cases there was a reduced and normal level of cerebral energy metabolism (CEM). An increase in SPP indices in the central Fpz-Cz (–4.3 (–10.7–3.3) mV) and parietal Fpz-Pz (–5.4 (–11.4–1.1) mV) leads was accompanied by decrease in the frontal abduction. More than 84% of those examined have a rigid response to physical and emotional stress. The response of restoration of the central nervous system in the post-hyperventilation period was of a rigid nature and was observed in 57% of cases, characterizing a decrease in neurovegetative adaptive responses. Limitations. The study is limited by the sample of one professional group – 35 nurses, the lack of a comparison group and the lack of clinical characteristics of those examined. Conclusion. In medical workers, impaired adaptation to stress is confirmed by the rigidity of the CPL index in response to physical and emotional stress, as well as the lack of restoration of the CPL to its background value in the post-hyperventilation period.