Burnout and associated factors among nurses in hospital and public health setting in central division, Fiji during COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Burnout is a global occupational health problem which is a concern. Burnout is impacting staff welfare, management cost, and quality of patient care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, healthcare professionals who worked on the frontline of patient care have led to increased psychological distress. Nurses are challenged with carrying out immense work, not only in increased volume and intensity but also coping with the new regulations, especially in Fiji where the number of nurses is limited. Objective: This study aimed 1) to investigate the prevalence of burnout among nurses in central division of Fiji during the COVID-19 pandemic and 2) to find the factors associated with burnout among nurses in Fiji. Method: A cross-sectional study involving 20 - 60 years old nurses from hospital and public health settings in the central division of Fiji. A self-reported online questionnaire in English was used to collect data on demographics, lifestyle factors, work factors, COVID-19 exposure, and burnout levels using Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). Data analysis was performed using SPSS 28.0. Results: A total of 264 responses were received, where 51 (19.3%) males and 213 (80.7%) females. Public health nurses were 122 (46.2%) and hospital nurses were 142 (53.8%). The average age of respondents was 34.95 +7.38 years. Age categorized as below 35 and above 35 for analysis. The prevalence of personal burnout, work-related burnout, and patient-related burnout among nurses were 62.1%, 64.0%, and 64.0% respectively. Chi-square analysis showed factors that were associated to each subscale of burnout. Factors significantly associated with burnout in this study were age, marital status, annual nurse salary, rest hours, physical activity, perceived workload, teamwork, and social distancing. There was no significant difference of burnout between public health nurses and hospital nurses. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for targeted interventions and support systems to address burnout among nurses. The findings also provide for future research and offer suggestions for improving nursing practice and promote effective work environment.