Shift Work and Burnout Among Oncology and Hematology Nurses in Palestinian Hospitals

Burnout is a growing occupational health issue among nurses, particularly those working in emotionally demanding units such as oncology and hematology. In Palestine, limited resources, high workloads, and political instability further exacerbate this challenge. Shift work, a necessity in hospital settings, has been linked to disrupted sleep patterns, emotional exhaustion, and burnout. However, limited evidence exists on its specific impact among Palestinian oncology nurses.

To examine the association between shift work and burnout among oncology/hematology nurses in Palestinian hospitals, and to explore gender-specific differences.

This cross-sectional study included 214 registered nurses working in oncology/hematology units across public, private, and nongovernmental hospitals in the West Bank and Gaza. Data were collected using a validated Arabic version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Health Services Survey (MBI-HSS). Burnout was assessed across three dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. Statistical analysis included t-tests, ANOVA, and multivariate linear regression.

More than half of participants (57.2%) reported moderate levels of burnout. Emotional exhaustion was the most prevalent subscale (69.4%), followed by reduced personal accomplishment (53.3%) and depersonalization (45%). Shift workers demonstrated higher burnout scores, particularly among males. Younger age and fewer years of oncology experience were associated with greater burnout. Gender differences in subscale patterns were observed but not statistically significant.

Shift work contributes to increased burnout among Palestinian oncology nurses. Age and experience play moderating roles. Policy reforms are needed to address scheduling practices and improve mental health support for nursing staff.