Burnout and its correlation with workplace bullying in Portuguese nurses

Abstract

ABSTRACT The present work aims at describing the psychometric characteristics of the assessment instruments MBI-HSS (Maslach Burnout Inventory—Human Services Survey) and NAQ-R (Negative Act Questionnaire—Revised). In addition, it seeks to evaluate burnout prevalence, and its correlation with bullying, among nurses working in Portuguese health institutions. The study presents a descriptive, correlational and cross-sectional nature. A questionnaire elaborated in digital format, was employed as data collection instrument. It included the social-demographic and professional components, both assessed using the MBI-HSS and NAQ-R scales. The total sample comprised 2015 nurses. It was found that 2.68% of the nurses were already experiencing burnout, while 23.37% were in high risk, and 42.68% were in medium risk, of developing burnout. Furthermore, those who had suffered workplace bullying reported having greater emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. The chosen evaluation instruments exhibited good reliability and validity index. Nurses who suffered workplace bullying presented an enhanced risk of developing burnout. In this scope, it is fundamental the nurse managers’ involvement in the prevention of harmful behaviors at work, as well as in the promotion of interpersonal relationships based on respect and cooperation. Workplace bullying is considered a harmful phenomenon, responsible for numerous consequences that affect workers and organizations alike. Burnout is one of the reported adversities. This phenomenon has negative effects on the nurses mental and physical health and deterioration of patient care. Prevention increase the number of healthy nurses and the quality of patient care.