Burnout among Nurses in Intensive Care Unit in Saudi Arabia: Implications for Nursing Management

Abstract

Burnout among ICU nurses in Saudi Arabia poses a serious challenge, impacting both staff well-being and patient care. The high-stress environment and demanding workload contribute significantly to this issue. This study aims to explore the prevalence and factors influencing burnout among ICU nurses in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 ICU nurses in Saudi Arabia. Participants completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory, which measures emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment. Data were collected over three months and analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine prevalence rates, as well as inferential statistics to identify factors influencing burnout. The analysis focused on demographic variables, work conditions, and their impact on burnout levels. The study found that 70% of ICU nurses experienced high levels of emotional exhaustion, 55% reported moderate depersonalization, and 60% felt a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. Emotional exhaustion was most prevalent among younger nurses with less experience and those working in high-stress environments. Depersonalization was linked to insufficient support and high patient turnover. Factors such as gender and work shifts also significantly impacted burnout levels, indicating a need for tailored interventions. Addressing burnout through targeted interventions, improved support systems, and better working conditions is essential to enhance nurse well-being and patient care quality in ICU settings.