Job burnout among critical care nurses in the eastern province of Saudi Arabia

Abstract Objectives Nurses working in critical care units may encounter substantial work-related strain, and elevated levels of stress can lead to burnout, ultimately impacting both the quality of nursing care and their overall working experience. This study aimed to assess job burnout and determine the factors that contribute to it among critical care nurses in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Methods This study employed a descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional research design. A total of 220 nurses employed in the critical care units of 5 private hospitals in the eastern region were selected for participation in this study using a convenience sample method. An electronic survey was distributed to critical care nurses in the Eastern Province who satisfied the specified inclusion criteria. The job burnout questionnaire utilized in this study was derived from previously conducted research, which has been established as a reliable and valid survey instrument. The process of data analysis was conducted utilizing the SPSS program. The scientific research conducted on human subjects adhered rigorously to all ethical considerations. Results The highest percentage of nurses at the critical care units reported experiencing moderate levels of job burnout. Nurses exhibiting greater levels of professional experience demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in overall burnout scores when compared to their less experienced counterparts. Furthermore, within the realm of sociodemographic factors, it was found that the only significant independent predictor for job burnout was the level of experience among critical care nurses. Conclusions The prevalence of burnout among nurses in critical care settings was found to be significant, with most participants reporting moderate levels of burnout which can yield significant ramifications for nurses and healthcare professionals. Consequently, healthcare organizations must accord primacy to the welfare of their staff and adopt proactive strategies to mitigate job burnout.