Job Stress and Burnout Syndrome among Nurses Working at Critical Care Units in Bangladesh

Abstract

Objective: The study examines the relationship between job stress and burnout syndrome among nurses working in critical care units in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted with 112 nurses working in critical care units (ICU, CCU, and HDU) for at least two consecutive years, selected using a convenience sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Among the 112 nurses working in critical care units, 48% experienced high levels of burnout syndrome, 46% experienced moderate levels, and 6% experienced low levels. The majority of participants were aged 41 to 50 years (M=3.67, SD=0.396). Female senior staff nurses who were Muslim, with a diploma in nursing and working in the CCU and ICU, reported higher levels of job stress and burnout syndrome. There was a significant positive correlation between job stress and overall burnout syndrome (r=0.53, p<0.001) and its three dimensions: emotional exhaustion (r=0.52, p<0.001), depersonalization (r=0.42, p<0.001), and low personal accomplishment (r=0.51, p<0.001). Conclusion: Job stress is widely correlated with health issues and can contribute to physical and mental illness, including burnout syndrome among nurses. The findings of this study will provide valuable information for nursing and health policymakers to develop strategies aimed at reducing job stress and burnout syndrome among nurses in Bangladesh.