Burnout and psychological distress among Pakistani nurses providing care to COVID-19 patients: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the burden of burnout and psychological distress and its association among Pakistani nurses providing care to patients with COVID-19. Background: Nurses may experience an elevated risk of burnout and psychological distress during epidemics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample of 288 nurses. Maslach Burnout Inventory was administered to measure burnout and its domains of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment. Screening Tool for Psychological Distress was administered to measure depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and low social support. Results: Burnout was present in 48.6% of nurses, severe emotional exhaustion in 37.2%, severe depersonalization in 36.8%, and low personal accomplishment in 46.9% of nurses. Psychological distress was present in 45% of nurses. Burnout and psychological distress were significantly higher in nurses who: were working in public hospitals, did not receive training for COVID-19 prevention, and were dealing with increased patient load. Burnout and its domains were significantly associated with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and low social support. Conclusion: Nurses are experiencing high levels of burnout and psychological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic with a significant moderate-to-strong association between these conditions. These findings accentuate the need for institution-based interventions to mitigate burnout and preserve the mental health of nurses. Implications for nursing and health policy: Hospitals must screen nurses frequently for the presence of significant burnout and psychological distress and offer supportive interventions to protect their mental health and well-being.