THE EFFECT OF WORKLOAD ON EMERGENCY NURSES’ PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH IN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

Introduction: Emergency nurses, specifically, are responsible for managing acute medical situations, stabilizing patients, and making quick decisions under pressure(3). The unique challenges they face in emergency departments (EDs) are characterized by long working hours, understaffing, the need for rapid assessment and intervention, and the presence of critically ill patients. Such conditions contribute to a substantial workload that not only tests their clinical skills but also impacts their mental well-being.

Objectives: To assess the psychological impact of workload on emergency nurses, including burnout, anxiety, and depression.

Methodology: The study utilized a cross-sectional design to investigate the psychological impacts of workload on emergency department nurses in tertiary care hospitals of Peshawar. The research was conducted in the emergency departments of Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) and Khyber Teaching Hospital (KTH), with the study population comprising all emergency nurses working in these hospitals. A census sampling technique was employed, including all registered nurses directly involved in patient care with at least one year of experience, while excluding those in administrative roles. Data was collected using a modified questionnaire adapted from the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS version 22, where frequencies and simple statistics were calculated for nominal variables, and descriptive statistics were applied to demographic variables. Various statistical tests were performed to assess the level of burnout among emergency nurses.

Results: The demographic data indicate that the majority of participants (90.9%) were aged 25-30 years, with smaller proportions aged 31-35 years (6.1%) and 36-40 years (3.0%). Most were female (74.2%), while 25.8% were male. Regarding education, 56.1% held a Post RN qualification, 22.7% had a BSN, 19.7% a diploma, and 1.5% an MSN. In terms of experience in the emergency department, 87.9% had 1-2 years of experience, 7.6% had 3-5 years, and 4.5% had 6-8 years. The findings show varying levels of burnout among emergency nurses. In terms of Emotional Exhaustion, the majority (74.2%) experienced moderate burnout, while 19.7% had low burnout, and 6.1% reported high burnout. For Depersonalization, 75.8% exhibited moderate burnout, 13.6% severe burnout, and 10.6% mild burnout. Regarding Personal Accomplishment, 84.8% had low-level burnout, while 15.2% experienced moderate-level burnout.

Discussion: Burnout was widespread, with moderate levels of emotional exhaustion (74.2%) and depersonalization (75.8%) due to high workloads and limited psychological support (26, 30-31). Despite challenges, 84.8% reported positive personal accomplishment, influenced by cultural caregiving values (24, 30). These findings underscore the need for interventions to reduce stress and enhance job satisfaction.

Conclusion: This study highlights significant challenges faced by nurses, particularly in emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. While most nurses maintain a positive sense of personal accomplishment, systemic changes are needed to address burnout comprehensively. By drawing on global, Asian, and Pakistani perspectives, this discussion provides a foundation for future interventions aimed at improving the well-being and effectiveness of the nursing workforce.