Substance (Cigarette and Alcohol) Use Among Psychiatric Staff in the Accra Metropolis: Prevalence and Associated Factors

Abstract

Background: The issue of substance use among psychiatric health professionals is a significant concern within the healthcare system. Substance misuse can impair healthcare professionals' ability to provide safe and effective care, potentially leading to errors, compromised judgment, and threats to patient safety. However, the scarcity of data highlights a significant gap in understanding these challenges. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of, and factors associated with substance use (cigarette and alcohol) among psychiatric staff. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design to recruit 219 psychiatric health professionals from Accra and Pantang psychiatric hospitals using random sampling. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the participants' background factors and substance use patterns. Multiple regression analysis was conducted to identify factors associated with substance use, with a 95%confidence level. Results: This study of 219 psychiatric staff found 11.0% had ever smoked and 3.7% were current smokers. Alcohol use was more common, with 30.6% having consumed alcohol, 27.4% reporting use in the past year, and 23.3% in the past 30 days. Combined alcohol and cigarette use prevalence was 26.0%. Several workplace factors were significantly associated with substance use. These included hospital policies (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=0.04, 95% CI: 0.00–0.75, p=0.031), workplace culture (aOR=0.15, 95% CI: 0.03–0.66, p=0.012), and work fatigue (aOR=0.11, 95% CI: 0.02–0.75, p=0.024). Conclusion: These findings highlight the critical need for targeted interventions, including supportive workplace policies and resources, to mitigate substance use, promote the well-being of psychiatric staff, and safeguard the quality of patient care