The Relationship between Coping Strategies and Burnout among Nurses at Pumwani Maternity Hospital

Abstract

Aim: The current study evaluated the relationship between three coping strategies (problem-oriented, social support and avoidance coping strategies) and burnout among nurses working in Pumwani Maternity Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional design was used in the study which was conducted during the period of August 2015 to December 2016. A total of 96 nurses from the target population of 128 nurses at Pumwani Maternity Hospital were included in the study. The sample was selected through non-probability sampling methods that included clustering, purposive and convenient sampling. Self-administered data collection instruments consisting of Maslach Burnout Inventory -Human Services Survey and a coping strategy indicator were used. Data acquired was processed using SPSS version 21, particularly utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Finding showed that majority of the respondents (88.6 %) were experiencing burnout. There was a moderate correlation (R=0.239) between burnout and coping strategies, which also revealed that most nurses adopt problem solving strategy. Although there was no significant difference in burnout levels between the three coping strategies, avoidance coping strategy was found to be a significant predicator of burnout levels. Problem solving and social support were negatively related to burnout levels, while avoidance coping was positively related to burnout. Conclusion: Majority of the nurses at Pumwani Maternity Hospital experience burnout. Problem solving and social support coping strategies were related to decrease in their burnout while avoidance coping increased the levels of burnout. There is need to implement effective coping strategies to reduce the incidence of burnout among nurses working in maternal health care facilities.