SCREENING AND PREVENTION OF JOB BURNOUT IN THE COVID ERA: AN ITALIAN EXPERIENCE

ABSTRACT

Introduction the risk of healthcare workers (HCWs) burnout is affected by individual and organizational factors and has been dramatically increased by the COVID-19 pandemic. Since 2007 the Oncology Department of the Udine University-Hospital has cooperated with a network of psychologists to explore the organizational climate and prevent work-related stress. The last survey was conducted from april to june 2021. Methods the items included were job burnout, emotional intelligence, quality of communication among HCWs, ethical dimension, leadership, relationship with cancer and death. Anonymous questionnaires were administered to 94 HCWs medical oncology consultants and trainees, nurses, HC assistants, psychologists and administrative staff. Professional category, age and length of service were the variables considered. Results despite the work overload observed in 2021, our group remained solid as critical situations were contained. Emotional health in the end-of-life setting was nurtured to prevent HCWs distress. Job burnout remains a critical issue, also due to a growing administrative burden, tensions experienced by HCWs and the absence of caregivers in the oncologic ward. To limit job burnout, it may be crucial to train HCWs in communication, doctor-patient relationship skills and team-building activities. Conclusions preventing job burnout with targeted interventions to promote teamhealth is crucial, especially during the pandemic.