Abstract
Objective
To determine the prevalence and predictors of burnout and psychiatric morbidity in
the Australian oncology workforce.
Method
A cross-sectional nationwide survey was conducted with 740 (56%) members of the Clinical
Oncological Society of Australia.
Results
High levels of [emotional] exhaustion were present in 32.8% of participants with direct
patient contact (DPC), and 26.7% of those with no direct patient contact (NDPC). The
main predictors of burnout were dissatisfaction with leave arrangements for the purpose
of preventing or recovering from burnout, increased hours of patient contact, and
perceived need for communication skill training.
Conclusions
Australian cancer care workers experience considerable occupational distress whilst
possessing high levels of personal accomplishment. Regular screening for burnout is
recommended with particular focus on those at-risk staff who have a substantial amount
of patient contact, neglect to take adequate leave, or who have not attended communication
skills training.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: November 17, 2008
Accepted:
September 30,
2008
Received in revised form:
September 9,
2008
Received:
August 6,
2008
Identification
Copyright
© 2008 Elsevier Ltd. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
