J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2006 Apr;13(1):96-106.

Analysis of Factors Influencing Secondary Traumatic Stress, Burnout, and Physical Symptoms in Firefighters

• Oh JH
• Lim NY

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study was done to evaluate the factors that influence secondary traumatic stress, burnout, and physical symptoms experienced by firefighters. In addition, a hypothetical model was developed. METHOD: The data were collected using self-reported questionnaires from 410 field service firefighters. Data analysis was done with the SPSSWIN 10.0 program for descriptive statistics and Windows LISREL program to determine the causal relationship between the measurement variables.
RESULTS
The hypothetical model which was developed fits well with actual data(chi-square=3.16, p=0.99, GFI=1.00, AGFI=0.99, NFI=0.99, and NNFI=1.06). The variable, personality type, social support, and impact mobilization frequency had a significant effect and accounted for 7% of the secondary traumatic stress in firefighters. The variables, career, social support, and secondary traumatic stress had a significant effect and accounted for 24% of the burnout in firefighters. Social support, impact mobilization frequency, and secondary traumatic stress were important variables and accounted for 31% of the physical symptoms in firefighters.
CONCLUSION
It is necessary for firefighters to manage themselves according to their personality types. Strategies that can increase the firefighters' social support and decrease their perceived secondary traumatic stress also need to be developed to minimize or prevent a negative effect on their health.

Keyword

Rescue work; Post-traumatic stress disorder; Burnout

MeSH Terms

Firefighters*
Humans
Surveys and Questionnaires
Rescue Work
Statistics as Topic
Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic