Abstract

Short Communication

Neurocognitive Effects of Prolonged Virtual Consultation (Zoom Fatigue) in Clinicians

Saim Mahmood Khan*, Hassan Saleem, Muskan Zahra, Faiza Saleem and Surraiya Riaz Mahmood Khan

Published: 06 October, 2025 | Volume 6 - Issue 2 | Pages: 080-082

With the rapid shift to telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, clinicians have faced unprecedented demands in adapting to prolonged virtual consultations. This has given rise to “Zoom fatigue,” a form of mental and emotional exhaustion associated with extended video-based interactions. While the Zoom Exhaustion and Fatigue Scale (ZEFS) has been widely applied in studies involving students and office workers, there is limited research on its relevance to clinicians. Physicians, in particular, often conduct hours of uninterrupted virtual patient care, which can potentially lead to significant neurocognitive strain. This study explores the impact of prolonged virtual consultations on clinician well-being, employing ZEFS alongside the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) to assess emotional and cognitive outcomes. Findings suggest that the increased cognitive load, reduced non-verbal communication, and digital interface stress contribute to higher levels of fatigue, anxiety, and dissatisfaction, highlighting the urgent need for systemic support and ergonomic telehealth practices.

Read Full Article HTML DOI: 10.29328/journal.jcmhs.1001063 Cite this Article Read Full Article PDF

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