Burnout or Fade Away; experiences of health professionals caring for patients with Head and Neck cancer
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O'Connor, Moira
White, Rohen
Baxi, Siddhartha
Halkett, Georgia
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Abstract
PURPOSE: The oncology workforce has been found to have high risk of burnout; however, limited research has explored the experiences of health professionals working with head and neck cancer patients. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of health professionals who work directly with patients diagnosed with head and neck cancers, with a focus on work-life balance, mental health and wellbeing. METHOD: A total of 21 in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with health professionals including radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, nurses, and associated medical and allied health professionals. A qualitative research approach based on social constructionist theory was used. Thematic analysis was used to identify and code themes. RESULTS: Five main themes emerged: 1. Conscientiousness; 2. Empathy; 3. Challenges; 4. Coping; and 5. Burnout or Fade Away. Challenges included sub-themes of Time & Resource Constraints, Work-Life Imbalance, Patients with Complex Needs, and Lack of Self-Care. CONCLUSION: It is vital to the sustainability of head and neck oncology services that this highly skilled workforce is retained. The development of interventions that will reduce the risk of burnout and improve retention and capacity of health professionals may include advanced communication skills training, trauma sensitivity training, self-compassion and stress management skills.
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European Journal of Oncology Nursing
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50
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Nursing
Oncology and carcinogenesis
Burnout
Cancer
Head and neck cancer
Health professionals
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Citation
Gibson, C; O'Connor, M; White, R; Baxi, S; Halkett, G, Burnout or Fade Away; experiences of health professionals caring for patients with Head and Neck cancer., European Journal of Oncology Nursing, 2021, 50, pp. 101881