Prevalence of Burnout Among Respiratory Therapists Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background: Burnout is a major challenge in health care. Burnout prevalence has not been evaluated in practicing respiratory therapist (RTs). The purpose of this study was to identify RT burnout prevalence and identify factors associated with RT burnout.

Methods: A survey was administered to 26 centers or healthcare systems and was administered between January 17, 2021 and March 15, 2021. Validated surveys were used to measure burnout and leadership domains, we developed our own questions for RT staffing and demographics. Data analysis was descriptive and logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate risk factors, expressed as odds ratios (OR), for burnout.

Results: There were 1114 responses. The response rate was 37%. Seventy-nine percent of individual respondents reported burnout, 10% with severe, 32% with moderate, and 37% with mild burnout. Univariate analysis revealed those with burnout worked more hours per week, worked more hours per week in the ICU, were more likely to primarily care for adult patients, primarily delivered care via RT protocols, did not have adequate RT staffing, were unable to complete assigned work, were frequently exposed to COVID-19, had a lower leadership score, and were less likely to have a positive view of leadership. Logistic regression revealed burnout climate (OR 9.38, P < 0.001), inadequate RT staffing (OR 2.08 to 3.19, P = 0.004 to 0.05), being unable to complete all work (OR 2.14 to 5.57, P = 0.003 to 0.20), and missing work for any reason were associated with increased risk of burnout (OR 1.96, P = 0.007). Not providing patient care (OR 0.18, P = 0.02) and a positive leadership score (0.55, P = 0.02) were associated with decreased risk of burnout.

Conclusions: Burnout was common among RTs in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Good leadership was protective against burnout while inadequate staffing, inability to complete work, and burnout climate were associated with burnout.