Impact of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) on the Severity of Anxiety among Physicians and Nurses Working in Intensive Care Units

Abstract Background Physicians and nurses working in intensive care units (ICUs) face significantly higher levels of anxiety than other healthcare professionals do because of the demanding nature of their work environment and patient conditions. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in mitigating anxiety among critical care staff. Objective To examine the effect of EMDR therapy on the severity of anxiety experienced by physicians and nurses employed in the ICUs of Ganjavian Hospital in Dezful. Methods This semi experimental study assessed the impact of EMDR on anxiety in 60 ICU staff (30 EMDR, 30 control) from Ganjavian Hospital. The participants met specific inclusion criteria (e.g., age <70 years, no seizures, informed consent). The intervention group received 8 biweekly EMDR sessions (45–90 min each). Data, including Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores, were collected before and after the intervention. Statistical analyses (t tests, ANCOVAs) were performed via SPSS v21 (p<0.05). Results Baseline anxiety levels were comparable between the groups (mean BAI: 18.90±10.93 for EMDR patients vs. 19.50±12.84 for controls). Post intervention, the EMDR group presented a significant reduction in anxiety (mean BAI: 14.46±10.12) compared with the control group (18.56±12.24) (p=0.036). Significant improvements in the SUDs and VOC scores were also observed in the EMDR group. Conclusion These findings strongly support the efficacy of EMDR therapy in significantly reducing anxiety levels among physicians and nurses working in high-stress ICU environments. The implementation of EMDR as a targeted intervention for the mental health of critical care staff can enhance their professional focus and patient care quality, potentially leading to improved health outcomes. Clinical trial number Not applicable.