Workplace environment and burnout among hemodialysis healthcare professionals: a pilot study

Purpose This pilot study investigated burnout levels among healthcare professionals (HCPs) in center-based versus satellite dialysis units and explored the relationship between patient clinical complexity and staff well-being. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 39 HCPs in Pécs, Hungary. Burnout was measured using the MBI and MOLBI scales. Patient complexity was assessed via the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) and the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS). Results Patients treated in the center-based unit had a significantly higher comorbidity burden (CCI: 6.62 vs. 5.55, p  = 0.003) and poorer functional status (KPS: 67.9 vs. 85.7, p  < 0.001) compared with those treated in the satellite unit. HCPs working in the center-based unit reported significantly higher burnout levels than those in the satellite unit, as reflected by MBI total scores (62.8 ± 11.5 vs. 52.8 ± 14.3, p  = 0.023), primarily driven by emotional exhaustion. MOLBI-measured exhaustion showed a significant positive correlation with patient CCI scores ( r  = 0.426, p  = 0.028). In exploratory regression analysis, dialysis unit type emerged as an independent predictor of burnout severity ( p  = 0.022). Conclusion Higher patient clinical and functional complexity in center-based units is directly linked to increased HCP burnout. Effective prevention strategies include workload adjustments based on patient acuity, staff rotation, and providing psychological support.