Stress Levels, Attitude toward Vaccination and Personal Protective Equipment of Students at Wroclaw Medical University during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The study was conducted in March of 2021 on the students at Wroclaw Medical University from different years and faculties. Students who had mandatory physical education classes in the current year and met other eligibility criteria were enrolled. The aim of the study was to examine the impact of the pandemic on the lives of medical students. Ultimately, 660 responses to the study were included. To determine the level of stress, KPS questionnaires were used, which distinguish five types of stress. Moreover, the attitudes towards and status of vaccination were examined using PPE and declarative fettle. The findings pointed to a significantly higher level of stress in males compared to females (overall stress, 5.35 and 4.66, p = 0.0002), and increased external stress in some faculties (5.71 in dentistry, compared to overall 4.83, p = 0.009). Furthermore, medical students in their 2nd year were more stressed compared to those in their 1st year (overall stress 4.95 and 4.15, p < 0.0001). By knowing where the stress is highest, we can fight it more effectively and efficiently, by directing resources right where they are needed the most. A study about stress levels during the pandemic compared to physical activity should be developed.