Burnout among frontline health professionals in two African countries: a cross sectional study from Egypt and Sudan

Abstract Background The impact of coronavirus pandemic (COVID19) on healthcare professionals (HCPs) is an issue of global concern. Occupational burnout among HCPs has been reported by several studies. However, pandemic-related burnout needs further investigation especially among frontline HCPs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of burnout syndrome among HCPs working at COVID-19 isolation facilities in Egypt and Sudan. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among frontline HCPs in Egypt and Sudan from May 2021 to July 2021. An online, anonymous, self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Occupational burnout was estimated using the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory. Data analyzed using SPSS software. Results A total of 362 HCPs participated in the study and were equally recruited from Egypt (181) and Sudan (181) with mean age of (31.84 ± 8.32) years. More than half were females (60%) and were physicians (58.3%). Most healthcare professionals included in the study had high levels of work disengagement (75.4%) and emotional exhaustion (98.6%). Burnout syndrome was present in 75% of the HCPs with 77% prevalence among Egyptian HCPs and 71% prevalence among Sudanese HCPs. The parameters that are associated with burnout syndrome among Egyptian HCPs were working hours per week; while for Sudanese HCPs, these were age and number of days off. Conclusion The study revealed a high prevalence of burnout syndrome among HCPs working at COVID-19 isolation facilities in Egypt and Sudan. Appropriate actions should be taken to preserve mental health status of HCPs through establishment of effective and efficient coping strategies.