Prevalence of burnout syndrome in nephrology nurses after one year of the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The high prevalence of chronic kidney disease and the complexity of therapeutic management make nephrology nurses susceptible to burnout syndrome. In this scenario, the COVID-19 pandemic has appeared. This new situation may increase the appearance of burnout among nephrology nurses. Objective: To describe the prevalence of burnout syndrome among nurses in a nephrology department of a tertiary hospital. Method: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, single-centre study. Data collection was carried out in May 2021 using an ad-hoc questionnaire with socio-demographic and occupational questions. The validated questionnaire “Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey” was administered, consisting of questions on feelings and attitudes of professionals towards patients and co-workers. Results: 28 nurses were included, being 71.8% of the study population, with a mean of 18±12.2 years of experience;11 (39.3%) had COVID-19;24 (85.7%) were vaccinated;18 (64.3%) did not receive specific training on SARS-CoV-2;13 (46.4%) nurses were afraid of transmitting COVID-19 to their environment;5 (17.9%) were afraid of becoming infected and 19 (67.9%) felt bad mood. The results of the “Maslach Burnout Inventory Human Services Survey” showed that 15 nurses (58.6%) had at least two of the three spheres affected. Conclusions: Nurses present a real risk of burnout in the context described. The implementation of prevention and treatment programs is essential. The area with the greatest reported impact is that of self-fulfillment. © 2022, Sociedad Espanola de Enfermeria Nefrologica. All rights reserved.