Evaluation of the prevalence and risk factors of burnout syndrome among healthcare workers: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: Burnout syndrome is a significant issue among healthcare professionals worldwide, marked by depersonalization, emotional exhaustion, and a reduced sense of personal achievement. This psychological and physical burden profoundly affects healthcare professionals' quality of care and overall well-being. In Somalia, where the healthcare system faces numerous challenges, the escalating demand for medical services and inadequate resources, coupled with overwhelming workloads, long hours, and high-stress levels, make healthcare providers particularly vulnerable to burnout syndrome. This, in turn, affects both the mental health of healthcare personnel and the quality of care they provide.

Aim: To examine the prevalence and determinants of burnout syndrome among healthcare practitioners in Mogadishu, Somalia.

Methods: This cross-sectional prospective study was performed among 246 healthcare providers employed at a tertiary care hospital in Mogadishu, Somalia, who were recruited via random sampling. Data were collected using questionnaires that covered sociodemographic, psychological, work-related characteristics, and burnout syndrome. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the variables that correlated with burnout syndrome. The results were presented using adjusted odds ratios (AORs), 95%CIs, and P values, with a cutoff of 0.05 for identifying significant associations.

Results: Among the participants, 24% (95%CI: 18.8%-29.8%) exhibited symptoms of burnout syndrome. Factors associated with burnout included female gender (AOR = 6.60; 95%CI: 2.29-19.04), being married (AOR = 3.07; 95%CI: 1.14-8.28), being divorced or widowed (AOR = 5.84; 95%CI: 1.35-25.35), working more than 7 night shifts (AOR = 3.19; 95%CI: 1.30-7.82), having less than 5 years of job experience (AOR = 5.28; 95%CI: 1.29-21.65), experiencing poor sleep quality (AOR = 5.29; 95%CI: 1.88-14.89), and exhibiting depressive (AOR = 4.46; 95%CI: 1.59-12.53) and anxiety symptoms (AOR = 7.34; 95%CI: 2.49-21.60).

Conclusion: This study found that nearly one in four healthcare professionals suffers from burnout syndrome. Improving sleep quality, monitoring, and providing mental health support could enhance their well-being and patient care.