Burnout, Job Satisfaction, and Psychological Symptoms Among Emergency Physicians During COVID-19 Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: The current research during COVID-19 has not yet addressed burnout, job satisfaction (JS), and psychological outcomes among emergency physicians (EPs). The aims of this study are to investigate the burnout, JS, depression, anxiety, and stress levels of EPs who struggle against COVID-19 and to analyze the associated influencing factors.

Materials and Methods: This study used a cross-sectional survey design with 331 EPs working in Istanbul, Turkey. The Maslach Burnout Inventory, which assesses emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA); the Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire; Depression-Anxiety-Stress Scales-21; and a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic- and work-related characteristics were used.

Results: The rates of high-level EE, DP, and reduced PA were 71.3%, 55.3%, and 47.4%, respectively. From mild to extremely severe, depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms were 89.1%, 70.2%, and 60.1%, respectively, at any level. Overall JS was mostly moderate with 74.9%. High depression level, low JS level, and low work experience were found to be the variables that most accurately predicted burnout. Individuals being diagnosed with COVID-19, being quarantined, and having psychiatric disorder histories carry the risk of worse mental health. Residents and general practitioners have higher levels of EE, depression, and anxiety with low JS than specialists.

Conclusion: This study reveals a high risk of burnout, depression, anxiety, stress, and also insufficient JS in EPs during the pandemic. From the results of our study, it is recommended that investigations are carried out and evidence-based interventions are developed to improve mental well-being, increase JS, and prevent burnout.

Cite this article as: Bahadirli S, Sagaltici E. Burnout, job satisfaction, and psychological symptoms among emergency physicians during covid-19 outbreak: A cross-sectional study. Psychiatr Clin Psychopharmacol.2021; 31: 67-76.