Prevalence of personal, work-related and patient-related burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors among healthcare workers in health clinics in the district of Manjung, Perak: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION: Burnout is a syndrome characterised by physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that results from a long period of involvement in an overwhelming work condition. It is prevalent among frontline workers. This study aimed to identify the prevalence of burnout among primary healthcare workers in the district of Manjung, Perak and determine the factors associated with burnout.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare workers in seven health clinics located in the district from August to September 2022. The self-administered validated Malay version of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and the Malay version of the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support were used. These instruments consisted of 31 questions rated on a 5-point Likert scale. The scores were then summed up to determine the burnout level. Data were analysed using SPSS version 20. Simple logistic regression analysis was performed. Thereafter, multiple logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors associated with burnout.

RESULTS: A total of 224 participants were included. Among them, 61.6% were nurses; 21.4%, doctors; and 17.0%, assistant medical officers. The prevalence of personal burnout was 31.3%; work-related burnout, 16.5%; and patient-related burnout, 5.4%. The factors associated with burnout were the highest educational level, financial difficulties and low perceived social support from friends and significant others.

CONCLUSION: Healthcare workers in Manjung health clinics have a higher prevalence of personal burnout than work- and patient-related burnout. The findings of this study provide early insights and guidance for possible interventions.