Burnout Syndrome in Pediatric Healthcare Professionals: Associated Factors and Prevention Strategies

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout syndrome is a prolonged response to chronic emotional and interpersonal stressors related to work. Its incidence has been increasing worldwide, particularly among healthcare professionals, negatively impacting their physical and mental health and compromising the quality and safety of patient care. Objectives: To identify factors associated with burnout among healthcare professionals working in pediatric settings and to propose preventive strategies. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with an analytical aim was conducted using a validated questionnaire. It included healthcare professionals working at Bechir Hamza Children's Hospital of Tunis (infant medicine, pediatric anesthesia and intensive care, pediatric surgery, emergency and outpatient services) and at the Neonatology Department of the Tunis Maternity and Neonatology Center (N = 60). Results: The response rate was 82.4%. The mean age of participants was 36.5 ± 9.1 years, with a marked female predominance (male-to-female ratio = 0.14). Most respondents had more than five years of professional experience and worked rotating shifts (63.3%). Burnout was identified in 96.7% of participants, including moderate burnout in 53.3% and severe burnout in 18.3%. High levels of emotional exhaustion (81.7%) and depersonalization were common, while more than half of participants reported low personal accomplishment. The main causes of fatigue were excessive workload (90%) and emotional strain related to patient care (37%). Severe burnout was significantly associated with a high number of patients per bed (p = 0.016), a high patient-to-caregiver ratio (p = 0.029), emotional exhaustion (p = 0.04), and inadequate or dazzling lighting conditions (OR = 18.75; p = 0.021). Conclusion: Burnout among pediatric healthcare professionals is highly prevalent. Its prevention requires a multifactorial approach focusing on organizational, environmental, and workload-related interventions to improve working conditions, protect caregivers' well-being, and ensure high-quality pediatric care.