DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/PR2X-QR09
Defense Date
2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Health Related Sciences
First Advisor
Melissa Jamerson
Second Advisor
Teresa Nadder
Third Advisor
Alena C. Hampton
Fourth Advisor
Michael Lacy
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted and strained healthcare systems worldwide. Frontline healthcare workers have experienced increased rates of psychological distress and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic, which have led to high turnover intention and workforce shortages. Medical Laboratory Professionals have endured similar experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, there has been limited research exploring these factors for this group of professionals. This study utilized a convergent mixed methods approach to investigate the impact of psychological distress and burnout on the turnover intentions of Medical Laboratory Professionals in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to explore motivational factors associated with turnover intention amongst Medical Laboratory Professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. The results showed that overall, Medical Laboratory Professionals levels of psychological distress (stress, anxiety, and depression) and burnout during the COVID-19 pandemic deviated from the “normal” reference ranges. Results also found that more than half of Medical Laboratory Professionals had a desire to leave their position during the COVID-19 pandemic. Psychological distress (stress, anxiety, and depression) and burnout (emotional exhaustion and depersonalization) were found to be significant predictors of turnover. Several themes emerged relating to coping with psychological distress, laboratory morale, and factors for turnover intention. These themes include, but are not limited to, recognition/appreciation, healthy/unhealthy coping strategies, importance of work life balance, dissatisfaction with salary, psychological distress, and burnout. Results from this study suggest there is a significant need to develop and implement well-being programs within medical laboratories to recruit and retain Medical Laboratory Professionals. These interventional programs can aid the Medical Laboratory rapid response to crisis and help to retain Medical Laboratory Professionals during the next pandemic.
Rights
© Keandra L. Walthall
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
11-14-2023