Common antecedents and outcomes of burnout among healthcare workers in the Emergency Department: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Burnout among Emergency Department (ED) healthcare workers arises from their high-stress environment, characterized by acute patient conditions, unpredictable workflows, and emotional and physical demands. While burnout has been extensively studied in healthcare, the specific antecedents and outcomes unique to ED settings remain insufficiently explored. This review aimed to map the common factors contributing to burnout and its impacts among ED healthcare workers. Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, and PsycINFO was conducted for studies published from inception up to October 2024. Peer-reviewed original articles were included if they were written in English, and focused on workplace factors/burnout outcomes among ED healthcare workers. Data were analyzed using the Job Demands-Resources model to identify recurring themes in job demands, resources, and outcomes. Results: Out of 3228 articles retrieved, 47 studies were included. Most studies employed quantitative methods (85.1 %) and were published between 2021 and 2024, focusing on ED physicians, nurses, or both. Burnout prevalence varied from 10.5 % to 70 %, with different definitions or measurement tools used across studies. Key antecedents included workplace violence, high workload, and work-life conflict, which were particularly prominent in ED settings due to their unpredictable and high-pressure nature. These demands were further intensified by insufficient job resources, especially a lack of tailored social and organizational support, which was frequently linked to burnout among ED healthcare workers. Burnout was associated with adverse health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, and work-related issues, with increased turnover intentions emerging as a notably significant consequence. Conclusion: This review identified key antecedents of burnout and its adverse health and work-related outcomes. However, most findings are based on cross-sectional and qualitative studies, limiting causal interpretations. The underlying mechanisms driving these relationships remain underexplored, highlighting the need for robust longitudinal research. Future studies should employ diverse methodologies to develop evidence-based interventions aimed at mitigating burnout, enhancing workforce well-being, and improving the quality of healthcare delivery.