Perceived safety and burnout among provincial hospital nurses

Abstract

This study explored the relationship between perceived safety both physical and psychological and burnout both disengagement and exhaustion among nurses in a provincial hospital in Antique, Philippines. Using a descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 168 nurses through adapted and modified survey instruments, focusing on levels of perceived physical and psychological safety, disengagement, and exhaustion. Findings revealed that nurses generally perceived their physical safety as moderate to high, particularly in emergency preparedness and infection control, though gaps existed in areas such as interior comfort and Personal Protective Equipment availability. Psychological safety was moderately rated, with strengths in leadership support and communication, but notable concerns around recognition systems, promotion fairness, and mental health services. Moderate levels of disengagement and exhaustion were observed, indicating early signs of burnout despite evident resilience among the nursing staff. Notably, significant negative correlations were found between both physical safety and disengagement (r = -0.333, p < .001), and psychological safety and disengagement (r = -0.313, p = .005), suggesting that improved perceptions of safety are linked to higher nurse engagement. However, no significant relationships were found between either safety domain and exhaustion. The results underscore the importance of fostering safe, supportive environments to protect nurse’s well-being and sustain workforce engagement. Practical recommendations were proposed for healthcare institutions and stakeholders to enhance workplace conditions and prevent burnout among nursing professionals.