Factors associated with burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses: A cross-sectional snapshot

Introduction: Emergency nurses are particularly vulnerable to burnout, fatigue, and moral distress because of the demanding nature of their work. This study aimed to determine the significant predictors of burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses with the goal of developing effective interventions to support their well-being and improve patient care. Methods A cross-sectional design was used to collect data using a Google Form questionnaire. A total of 290 Emergency Nurses from four government hospitals in Hail City, Saudi Arabia participated in this study. Data were collected between May and June 2024. Results Younger nurses (under 30 years old) experienced significantly higher levels of burnout (β = -0.803, p < 0.001), compassion fatigue (β = -25.577, p < 0.001), and moral distress (β = -2.381, p = 0.024). Male nurses reported notably higher levels of burnout (β = -6.532, p < 0.001) and moral distress (β = -71.073, p < 0.001) than female nurses. Nurses with less than 5 years of experience were more likely to suffer from burnout (β = -5.071, p < 0.001) and compassion fatigue (β = -32.234, p < 0.001). Night shift work (11 PM to 7 AM) was associated with higher levels of burnout (β = 3.151, p = 0.034), compassion fatigue (β = -35.021, p < 0.001), and moral distress (β = 58.509, p < 0.001). Higher education (master's degree) was associated with higher levels of moral distress (β = 181.996, p < 0.001). Social support was associated with lower levels of burnout (β = -8.726, p < 0.001) and compassion fatigue (β = -31.341, p < 0.001). Conclusion Younger age, male sex, less experience, night shift work, and inadequate social support emerged as significant predictors of burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress among emergency nurses. These constructs are interconnected, with high levels of one often leading to higher levels of others. To improve the health and well-being of emergency nurses, interventions should prioritize adequate workload management, stress reduction techniques, enhanced social support, targeted educational programs, and organizational support. Future research should explore the long-term impact of these stressors on nurses' health and patient outcomes, as well as the efficacy of specific interventions in mitigating burnout, compassion fatigue, and moral distress.