A recent study dives into the rates of burnout among nurses, looking at the state of a professional nurse’s well-being, ability to provide quality patient care, and overall job satisfaction. The results are alarming. The researchers report that the rate of burnout in the field, which jumped during the pandemic, continues to remain high.
What does the research tell us about nurse burnout?
Researchers with the study defined nurse burnout as the physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion resulting from prolonged exposure to stresses that are common within the nursing profession. This included issues with understaffing, long hours, and high caseloads as well as the emotional intensity that comes with caring for sick and injured patients.
The study focused in on when and where nurses feel the most stress, noting both New Jersey and New York ranked high on the list of stressful states and that last year burnout peaked from November 26 through December 2. Researchers gathered this data by analyzing Google search trends and expert analysis.
Other studies support these findings. A 2023 study by PRC found more than 15% of all nurses reported feelings of burnout. This number is likely low, as it only includes those willing to admit their frustrations. The most recent study discussed above goes a step further, aiming to includes others who may suffer in silence.
What causes burnout in the medical profession, and how can healthcare workers avoid it?
Factors contributing to burnout include autonomy, teamwork, staffing, and a lack of leadership support. Nurses and other healthcare professionals can take steps towards reliance to reduce the risk of falling victim to burnout even when facing these factors. Strategies for building resilience can include:
- Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being by getting adequate rest, maintaining a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise. Practice mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to manage stress.
- Seek Support: Connect with colleagues and build strong professional relationships. Utilize counseling services if needed.
- Advocate for Change: Engage with hospital administrators and advocate for better working conditions. Encourage policies that address nurse-to-patient ratios and workload distribution.
- Time Management: Efficiently manage your workload by setting realistic goals and prioritizing tasks. Delegate when possible and communicate openly with your team.
Burnout can mean more than just exhaustion; it can impact your ability to provide quality care. This could put your nursing license at risk. Those who find themselves in this situation have options. First, address your own health. Take steps towards recovering from burnout.
Next, protect your professional future. Consider legal counsel to help defend against any investigation by the state board. Legal counsel experienced in this niche area of law can protect your interests during the process and better ensure a more favorable outcome.
Attorney John Rivas is responsible for this communication.
