Burnout and psychosocial working environment in specialised palliative care: A cross-sectional study of a multiprofessional cohort

Abstract

Background:

Specialised palliative care providers face complex challenges when caring for patients with life-limiting diseases. Despite this, a low prevalence of burnout has been observed among physicians in Danish palliative care compared to other Western countries. Given the multidisciplinary nature of palliative care, an expanded investigation was warranted.

Aim:

To assess burnout and its associations with demographic variables and workplace factors among all professions in Danish palliative care.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey study using the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory, the Danish Psychosocial Work Environment Questionnaire, and the Warr-Cook-Wall Job Satisfaction Scale.

Participants:

All 12 palliative care units in the Central Denmark Region participated. Of 288 invited professionals, 151 (52%) completed the survey. Respondents comprised nurses (n = 88), physicians (n = 17), other healthcare specialists (n = 12), and non-healthcare professionals (n = 34) from six hospices and six palliative care teams.

Results:

The prevalence of burnout was 23% overall; 28% in hospices and 14% in palliative care teams. Professionals in palliative care teams reported more weekly working hours (38 vs 34, p < 0.001), less shift work (40% vs 73%, p < 0.001), and higher meaningfulness at work (85 vs 76, p < 0.001) compared to hospice professionals. Adjusted analyses showed higher burnout among respondents with young age (p = 0.01), children living at home (p = 0.02), and shift work (p < 0.03). Low burnout was associated with high meaningfulness at work (p < 0.001), collegial trust (p < 0.001), and job satisfaction (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Burnout is a relevant concern in Danish palliative care, especially at hospices. The identified links to organisational and psychosocial factors suggests areas for further research and organisational attention.