Impact of EHRs on Nursing Burnout in a Hospital Setting in Saudi Arabia: Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

This study explores the association between nursing burnout and Electronic Health Record (EHR) use in a Saudi Arabian hospital adopting an advanced EHR system. Utilising a mixed-methods approach, the research combines quantitative analysis of 282 survey responses and qualitative interviews from 21 registered nurses. Despite high EHR acceptance, negative perceptions and stress related to EHR use were identified. Findings indicate a weak link between EHR use and burnout, with resilience acting as a mitigating factor. Specific stressors, including documentation workload and usability issues, were countered by individual and organisational resilience. The study introduces a novel conceptual model emphasising the pivotal role of resilience at both levels in mitigating EHR-related burnout. Recommendations include fostering resilience-building strategies in EHR implementation processes and usability to prevent burnout, emphasising self-care practices, promoting work-life balance, and improving health information infrastructure.