The Relationship Between Ego Virtues and Burnout Among Cardiovascular Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION: Cardiovascular diseases are a major health concern affecting both the physical and psychological well-being of patients. This study investigates the relationship between ego virtues and burnout among cardiovascular patients at King Abdulaziz Medical City, National Guard Health Affairs (NGHA), King Faisal Cardiac Center (KFCC), Jeddah, conducted between June and August 2022. Additionally, this study assesses the severity of burnout and explores potential gender-related differences in burnout and ego virtues within this patient population. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 272 outpatients aged ≥20 at NGHA, KFCC, Jeddah. The study utilized the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) and the Psychosocial Inventory of Ego Strength (PIES). Pearson correlation coefficient, independent t-test, and descriptive statistics were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Among the participants, a moderate negative correlation was observed between ego virtues and burnout (r = -0.48, p < 0.001). Participants exhibited moderate levels of burnout, with a mean total burnout (BT) score of 31 (SD = 7). Male patients had higher total ego virtues (t = 2.503, p = 0.013) and lower BT scores (t = -2.836, p = 0.005) compared with female patients. CONCLUSION: Our findings demonstrate a moderate level of burnout and an inverse correlation with ego virtues, with female participants exhibiting higher levels of burnout. These findings suggest that ego virtues may serve as protective factors against burnout among cardiovascular patients. However, considering the cross-sectional design of this study, further research is needed to determine a causal relationship.