Factors associated with burnout among frontline nurses in the post-COVID-19 epidemic era: a multicenter cross-sectional study

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the risk of burnout among frontline nurses. However, the prevalence of burnout and its associated factors in the post-pandemic era remain unclear. This research aims to investigate burnout prevalence among frontline nurses in the post-pandemic period and pinpoint associated determinants in China. Methods From April to July 2023, a cross-sectional study was carried out across multiple centers, focusing on frontline nurses who had been actively involved in the COVID-19 pandemic. The data collection was done via an online platform. The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey was utilized to evaluate symptoms of burnout. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to pinpoint factors associated with burnout. Results Of the 2210 frontline nurses who participated, 75.38% scored over the cut-off for burnout. Multivariable logistic regression revealed that factors like being female odds ratio (OR) = 0.41, 95%CI = 0.29–0.58 and exercising 1–2 times weeklyOR = 0.53, 95%CI = 0.42–0.67 were protective factors against burnout. Conversely, having 10 or more night shifts per monthOR = 1.99, 95%CI = 1.39–2.84, holding a master’s degree or higherOR = 2.86, 95% CI = 1.59–5.15, poor health statusOR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.93–3.08 and OR = 2.82, 95%CI = 1.80–4.43, under virus infectionOR = 7.12, 95%CI = 2.10-24.17, and elevated work-related stressOR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.17-2.00 were all associated with an elevated risk of burnout. Conclusion Our findings indicate that post-pandemic burnout among frontline nurses is influenced by several factors, including gender, monthly night shift frequency, academic qualifications, weekly exercise frequency, health condition, and viral infection history. These insights can inform interventions aimed at safeguarding the mental well-being of frontline nurses in the post-pandemic period.