JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Work can be considered a source of living, well-being, and socioeconomic development. When the work environment negatively influences individuals, it may trigger emotional disturbances, behavioral problems, chronic stress conditions, and illnesses, such as burnout syndrome (BS). Recently, studies on BS increased and placed special focus on healthcare professionals. The prevalence of BS among health professionals is associated with their chronic exposure to human suffering and long working hours without proper rest. These factors have contributed to greater stress and high physical and emotional exhaustion levels.

Objective:

To identify and map studies using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) scale to identify burnout syndrome in health professionals working in public health services.

Methods:

This scoping review was developed based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) Reviewers Manual and reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The steps followed in this study were proposed by Arskey and O'Malley and Levac, Colquhoun, O'Brien: Identification of research question, Identification of potential studies, Study selection, Data extraction and imputation, Data analyses and interpretation, Consulation whith stakeholders. The detailed methodology was published in a protocol.

Results:

Fifty-five articles were identified after screening and eligibility criteria, published between 1999 and 2021 from 32 countries. Most reports were published in Brazil, Spain, and China. Twenty-two versions of the MBI were identified, presenting different items, scores, and cut-off points. The included studies had recommendations and implications for clinical practice. The consultation with stakeholders allowed knowledge translation to those interested in BS.

Conclusions:

Studies mostly included physicians, and the original version of MBI was predominantly used. Divergences in BS classification were highlighted, which may be related to MBI cross-cultural adaptations and applications in other countries. This study contributes to advance research regarding burnout syndrome as an occupational illness since it has harmful consequences for workers, healthcare services, and the quality of care provided to the population.