Coping Strategies of Oncology Nurses with Varying Levels of Occupational Burnout

А.А. Утеулова, Adlet Kariyev, Marat Assimov, Fatima Bagiyarova, Elmira Abisheva

2026

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DOI 10.5604/01.3001.0055.8241
Data confidence 85 high
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Abstract

The aim of this study was to empirically identify and theoretically substantiate the predominant coping strategies used by oncology nurses experiencing different levels of occupational burnout.The aim of this study was to empirically identify and theoretically substantiate the predominant coping strategies used by oncology nurses experiencing different levels of occupational burnout. The study involved 135 Kazakhstani nurses aged 19–59 working in oncology departments of hospitals and oncology dispensaries in Almaty (Kazakhstan). The variables were assessed using validated and widely recognized instruments: the Ways of Coping Questionnaire (Lazarus & Folkman, 1987) and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (Maslach & Jackson, 1981). A predominance of the non‑productive coping strategy escape–avoidance was identified. Notable findings also included relatively strong use of the productive strategy self‑control, a critically high level of emotional exhaustion, and an above‑average level of depersonalization. Emotional exhaustion emerged as the most burdened and dependent dimension of burnout, showing three direct relationships—with confrontation (p ≤ .010), distancing (p ≤ .050), and escape–avoidance (p ≤ .050)—and one inverse relationship with planful problem‑solving (p ≤ .050). High emotional exhaustion was characterized as a state of “overstrain.” The most vulnerable group consisted of nurses with high emotional exhaustion (p ≤ .050), who tended to rely on non‑productive coping strategies such as confrontation, distancing, and escape–avoidance. The findings should be incorporated into psychological support, counselling, and intervention programs for oncology nurses at risk of occupational burnout.