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Abstract

Background: Burnout among healthcare workers, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has prompted exploration of effective interventions and assessment tools. The comprehension of burnout assessment scales tailored to healthcare professionals in Malaysia enables the implementation of targeted intervention and the provision of comprehensive healthcare services.

Methods: This systematic review assesses the effectiveness of the burnout assessment scales in Malaysia. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we searched databases including PsycINFO, Embase, and PubMed from January 2015 to June 2023 for studies involving Malaysian healthcare workers and validated burnout assessment scales. We assessed study quality and extracted data to analyse burnout prevalence, influencing factors, and scale validity.

Results: Ten studies met our criteria, covering various healthcare settings, specialties, and roles. Burnout prevalence varied and was influenced by factors such as COVID-19 fears, work-related stress, and demographics. Assessment scale psychometrics varied, emphasizing the need for culturally tailored tools. Social support and problem-focused coping related to lower burnout. Nurses and specific specialties reported higher rates of burnout. Job satisfaction and support systems were vital mitigating factors.

Conclusion: The review reveals the complex interplay of individual, organizational, and contextual elements in Malaysian healthcare workers burnout experiences. It emphasizes the importance of targeted interventions for addressing burnout, enhancing well-being, and improving healthcare quality. Developing culturally sensitive, reliable assessment tools and comprehensive interventions addressing individual and organizational factors is essential. Further research should explore holistic strategies to address burnout among Malaysian healthcare professionals and enhance their well-being.

Keywords: Burnout; Assessment; Healthcare professionals; Malaysia

References

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