Understanding Work-Related Burnout and Its Determinants Among Healthcare Professionals in Saudi Arabia: A...

BACKGROUND Stress is a common cause of burnout among healthcare professionals (HCPs), affecting health, increasing medical errors, and reducing patient outcomes. This study assessed work-related burnout and its drivers among HCPs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS A cross-sectional study of 523 HCPs at a tertiary hospital was conducted over 4 months in 2024 using convenience sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering demographics, occupational factors, and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Burnout was measured in 3 domains-emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and personal accomplishment (PA)-and categorized as low, moderate, or high. Data analysis was performed using SPSS v27. RESULTS High burnout was reported in EE (69.2%), DP (88.3%), and PA (58.5%). Women had higher burnout than men (58.58±24.99 vs 52.11±28.34; P=0.007). HCPs aged >30 years had greater burnout than those <30 years (60.39±22.05 vs 51.96±29.02; P=0.001). Regression analysis showed age (B=-3.029, P=0.005) and work-life balance (B=-2.339, P=0.028) predicted EE. Sex (B=-1.568, P=0.009) and age (B=-1.361, P=0.029) predicted DP. Age (B=-2.717, P=0.006) and chronic disease (B=-2.643, P=0.005) predicted lower PA. CONCLUSIONS Burnout, particularly DP, is highly prevalent among HCPs and is significantly associated with female sex and older age. These findings highlight the importance of identifying high-risk groups, improving work-life balance, and supporting HCPs with chronic illness. Organizational strategies addressing workload and staff well-being may help enhance retention, staff health, and quality of patient care.