Versions
- 19-12-2024 (2)
- 05-12-2024 (1)
Keywords
Healthcare workers
Workplace stress
Malaysia healthcare system
Human Resource Management (HRM)
Abstract
Workplace stress and burnout have become pervasive issues among healthcare workers (HCWs) globally, with Malaysia experiencing significant impacts on both worker well-being and patient care. This review examines the prevalence, causes, and consequences of workplace stress and burnout among Malaysian HCWs, with a particular focus on the role of Human Resource Management (HRM) interventions. The objectives are to identify the key stressors contributing to burnout, such as excessive workloads, long working hours, emotional strain, and insufficient managerial support, and to assess the effectiveness of HRM strategies, including stress management programs, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and mental health support services. Using a comprehensive review of current literature, this study reveals that burnout is highly prevalent among HCWs in Malaysia, with emotional exhaustion and depersonalization particularly affecting nurses. The COVID-19 pandemic has further intensified these challenges, exacerbating anxiety, depression, and burnout across the healthcare workforce. While HRM interventions have shown promise in mitigating these effects, their inconsistent implementation in public healthcare institutions due to administrative and resource constraints limits their impact. The findings emphasize the need for a structured, consistent approach to HRM interventions to reduce stress, enhance worker well-being, and improve healthcare delivery. Effective strategies such as flexible scheduling, mental health support, and targeted stress management programs are crucial for reducing turnover and fostering a sustainable, high-performing healthcare workforce. This review underscores the critical role of HRM in supporting HCWs and ensuring the long-term stability and quality of Malaysia’s healthcare system.
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