Working in Psychiatry: Staff Perception of the Brazzaville Hospital and University Center

Abstract

Background: In Congo-Brazzaville, there is a lake of mental healthcare provider and facilities specialized on psychiatric care: only two psychiatrists and one psychiatric department around the country. Poor appreciation of their role and work environment can negatively impact the esteem of psychiatric staff and lead to stigma and discrimination towards patients. Aims: The study aimed to assess the perception of the staff of the only psychiatric service in Congo. Material and methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive, prospective survey; conducted among the psychiatric staff of the Brazzaville University Hospital in September 2019. An anonymous individual questionnaire was administered to collect: 1) socio-professional data, 2) perceptions (assignment, role, workload and working conditions), and 3) identify the main problems of the service. Averages and frequencies were calculated on Epi info 7.2.2.6. Results: Thirty out of 42 staff had responded (71.4%); 16 were male and at their first psychiatric assignment (28/30), with an average age of 44.7 ± 7 and seniority of 8.4 ± 8.3 years. Among them: one psychiatrist, two psychologists, and 19 nurses. Their assignment in psychiatry was well perceived in 93.3% (27/30), as well as their role (the importance of psychiatric care and psychiatry). Working conditions were perceived as poor: precarious hygiene (93.3%), cohabitation with dangerous patients (82.1%), heavy workload due to lack of staff (100%). Of their professional future, 23.3% (7/30) were considering leaving. Conclusion: Almost all psychiatric staff had a good perception of their role and psychiatry, but not of the working conditions. Local measures to improve working conditions must be carried out to improve the attractiveness of psychiatry and the quality of care.