Invisible but Indispensable: A Qualitative Study of Burnout and Coping Among Laboratory Professionals in Saudi Arabia

Background: Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) play an important role in hospital diagnostics, yet little is known about their experiences of stress and burnout, especially in tertiary hospitals.Objective: This study explored the experiences of MLTs in a tertiary hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a focus on workload, stress, and coping methods.Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 laboratory technologists from different departments, selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework.Results: Three main themes were identified: (1) Workload-Induced Stress, linked to high sample numbers and long shifts; (2) Organizational and Interpersonal Challenges, including limited recognition, career barriers, and weak communication with clinical teams; and (3) Coping and Resilience, where participants reported using peer support, faith, and self-care.Conclusion: MLTs experience high emotional and operational pressures, often with little institutional support. Solutions require improved staffing, stronger recognition, and better collaboration across healthcare teams.