Perceptions of the Availability of Personal Protective Equipment and Its Association With Burnout Among US Healthcare Personnel During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic, 2020-2021.

OBJECTIVE:The aim of the study is to explore associations among personal protective equipment (PPE) availability, workplace environment, and burnout among US healthcare personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS:The study used an online healthcare provider (HCP) survey (December 2020-February 2021) regarding PPE confidence, availability, burnout, and workplace environment. RESULTS:Lack of appropriate PPE was reported by 27% of 799 US HCP surveyed. Burnout, reported by 77% of HCP, was more likely among females, those with fewer years of professional experience, and those with a higher desire to quit, and less likely for those who perceived PPE was adequate or their employer took all steps to minimize workplace risks. CONCLUSIONS:This study suggests that lack of adequate PPE can lead to HCP burnout, which may result in employees quitting. A pandemic preparedness plan that includes adequate PPE is essential for HCP well-being, patient health, and employer fiscal health.