O-264 BURNOUT AND WORK PARTICIPATION OF HOME CARE REHABILITATION PROFESSIONALS TRANSITIONING OUT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A MIXED-METHODS SEQUENTIAL EXPLANATORY PILOT STUDY IN ONTARIO, CANADA

Abstract Introduction The objectives of this study were to examine the nature of burnout and occupational stress among home care rehabilitation professionals (hcRPs) working at a large home care agency in Toronto, transitioning out of the COVID-19 pandemic; and understand their lived-experiences with burnout and occupational stress. Methods This study used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. In the first phase, a self-administered questionnaire was designed to collect demographic data and inventory factors experienced as occupational stressors and burnout. In the second phase, we interviewed 23 hcRPs. Data analyses included descriptive, inferential statistics and thematic analysis. Results A total of 139 (33.1% response rate) participants were included and 91% were females. Coping w:ith daily tasks (AOR = 3.06, 95% CI: 1.17 - 8.45), unexpected occurrences in the lives of RPs (AOR = 4.43, 95% CI: 1.22 - 21.23), and lack of control (AOR = 2.80, 95% CI: 0.90 - 9.40) were found to be associated with an increased risk of burnout. Three themes were identified: a) unique challenges of a home care rehabilitation professional, b) COVID-19 exacerbations of home care occupational and mental stress, and c) personal and workplace coping strategies. Discussion The findings of this study provide preliminary about hcRPs burnout and work participation. Furthermore, providing insight into the impacts of burnout on hcRPs work participation. Conclusion These findings may inform strategies that home care providers or organizations can adopt to build resilience, support the mental health of healthcare providers, and promote workplace engagement and participation while maintaining evidence-based clinical practices.