AN EVALUATION OF THE EVIDENCE OF BURNOUT AMONG ULTRASOUND PRACTITIONERS IN RIVERS STATE

Abstract

Background: Occupational burnout has become a critical issue among ultrasound practitioners. Inappropriate management of occupational burnout can lead to serious health problems. Aim: To evaluate the evidence of burnout among ultrasound practitioners in Rivers State. Materials and methods: A survey of ultrasound practitioners in selected diagnostic imaging facilities in Port Harcourt and its environs was conducted between November 2018 and March 2019 to evaluate the evidence of burnout. A descriptive survey design was employed and selection of the facilities was done using a systematic sampling technique. 21 diagnostic imaging facilities were used. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Management of the facilities. Data were obtained from structured questionnaires administered to 50 ultrasound practitioners in these facilities, who accepted to participate in the study. The questionnaire surveyed basic demographic data, time to get to work, experiences, practices, the number of night shifts and other factors that predispose burnout. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 20. Results: The factors contributing to burnout among ultrasound practitioners are understaffing leading to work overload and excessive overtime work (41%), hostile interactions with patients' relatives (34%), interactions with colleagues (20%), and conflict with Boss/supervisor (5%). Burnout manifests differently among the practitioners as feelings of being worn-out and weary (46%), being sick (31%), being emotionally drained (23%). Conclusion: Ultrasound practitioners in Rivers State suffer a high level of burnout. Issues of understaffing and interpersonal communication skills should be addressed in order to minimize the incidence of burnout.