Burnout among healthcare workers in a tertiary hospital in northern Nigeria

Abstract

The demands of patient care predispose healthcare workers to burnout, which can impair service quality. This study assessed the prevalence, pattern, and associated factors of burnout among healthcare workers. A cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted among 228 healthcare workers recruited from 20 clinical departments of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, using stratified sampling. Data on socio-demographics, lifestyle, and burnout were collected. Burnout was measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Associations with selected factors were tested using Chi-square, with significance set at p≤0.05. Of 228 recruited, 224 completed the study. Respondents’ mean age was 37.05 (Standard Deviation, SD±8.24) years, with 53.6% males. Burnout prevalence was 23.2%, with 14.2% showing high Emotional Exhaustion (EE), 33.9% high Depersonalization (DP), and 56.7% low Personal Accomplishment (PA). Laboratory scientists (p=0.018) and workers earning <₦30,000 ($53) monthly (p=0.007) had significantly lower PA. Physical inactivity (p=0.011) was associated with higher EE. Burnout was common among healthcare workers. Addressing welfare and lifestyle modification (e.g., exercise) may help reduce risk.