Australian regional cancer nurses’ experiences of burnout during 2019–2021

Abstract

Background

Cancer nurses are known to experience high rates of burnout. Despite cancer nurses being critical to providing care for people in rural and remote areas, there is limited research exploring the unique challenges and job demands experienced by regional cancer nurses, and the job demands that may act to buffer these stressors.

Aim

This study aims to identify antecedents of burnout among Victorian regional cancer nurses over a two-year period, by examining the job demands and resources prevalent in their work. We will build on existing literature by identifying specific job resources that can ameliorate job demands experienced by regional cancer nurses.

Methods

A qualitative case study with participants located in regional Victoria, Australia, was employed. Semistructured interviews were conducted both before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

Patient aggression, emotional demands, unsupportive peers and management, and resource-constrained work environments were reported as distinct job demands; while job significance, supportive peers and leadership, and connection to community were reported as job resources.

Conclusion

In regional settings, patient aggression, workforce shortages, hazardous work environments, and inconsistent digitisation of patient management systems are common characteristics of under-resourced workplaces. Despite these challenges, participants reported a strong desire to remain in the profession, mostly due to their commitment to their communities. Supportive peers and colleagues were also reported as an important job resource, particularly during the pandemic.