Burnout among oncology nurses and technicians in Morocco: Prevalence, risk factors, and structural equation modeling

ABSTRACT

Background: Burnout is an increasing concern in oncology, with significant implications for staff well-being and the quality of care delivery. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of burnout among oncology healthcare professionals in Morocco, primarily nurses and technicians, and to identify associated sociodemographic and occupational factors.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from September to December 2024 at the National Institute of Oncology in Rabat. Ninety-one healthcare professionals completed the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS). Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to explore the interrelationships among the three burnout dimensions.

Results: Severe burnout was identified in 61.5% of participants. Emotional exhaustion was the most affected dimension (70.4% moderate or high), followed by depersonalization (57.1%). While 50.5% reported high levels of personal accomplishment, 24.2% reported low fulfillment. Higher levels of burnout were associated with younger age, female gender, nursing roles, and night shift work. SEM analysis confirmed the central role of emotional exhaustion in predicting both increased depersonalization (β = 0.524, p = 0.002) and reduced personal accomplishment (β = –0.820, p = 0.003).

Discussion and Conclusion: Burnout is highly prevalent among oncology healthcare professionals in Morocco, particularly among young female nurses. Key contributing factors include age, gender, level of seniority, and shift schedules. Participants emphasized the importance of reducing workload, improving working conditions, adjusting salaries, and promoting continuing education. Institutional interventions are urgently needed to address burnout and protect healthcare worker well-being.