Nursing Burnout

I have observed nursing burnout in several of the hospitals I have been in. What do you feel in the number one cause of nurse burn out and what suggestions do you have for a new nurse to avoid this situation?
Quote from mollymoocowI have observed nursing burnout in several of the hospitals I have been in. What do you feel in the number one cause of nurse burn out and what suggestions do you have for a new nurse to avoid this situation?

Being understaffed/ pt ratio-acuity too high. Long hours. Non supportive management who have never worked the floor. Too much value placed on profit. To name a few.

Having seen a lot of burn out (and having been there myself), I noticed a common theme of a total lack of having a sense of humor wherever there is burn out taking place. When you can not laugh or joke with your coworkers, the everyday stressors seem to build up and internalize. On the other hand, wherever the staff are encouraged to apply a sense of humor throughout the shift, the workday becomes pleasurable, no matter how intense it may get. It also helps to have a sick sense of humor.

I also think working in the same environment long term contributes to burn out. I switch departments about every 5-8 years and in almost 30 years I think this has prevented major burnout. It keeps me curious and learning something new and working with different people. (also, I agree with loracatus....a sense of humor helps a LOT!)

I think if nurses felt as though they weren't obligated to take extra shifts, and OT wasn't the norm, that would help alot. Also, if someone would finally do something about the horizontal violence that occurs, instead of just doing studies, that would personally contribute to my job satisfaction. Also, managers who demonstrate understanding, and don't just expect us to keep on keepin' on, for weeks and months of working short, OT and denied vacations.

Please keep in mind that I cannot possibly speak for all nurses out there. Therefore, here are a few of the issues that have contributed to my personal burnout (I'm not burned out yet, but approaching it at the speed of light). If you're familiar with my posts, you're probably read this before.1. The lack of respect from doctors, patients, family members, coworkers, managers, and society2. Too much accountability for patient outcomes without much pay3. The managerial view that nurses are warm bodies who simply fill shifts4. Low workplace morale that can often be observed at many healthcare facilities5. The low self-esteems, passive aggression, and bullying tactics of some nurses6. The public's very outdated perception of the nursing profession7. The female domination of the nursing profession8. The desire for hospital administrators to maximize profit margins, without regard to nursing staff or patient safety9. The societal demand that nurses "do it all" while being overworked, understaffed, underpaid, and lacking supplies10. The assumption that the nurse is also the customer service rep, bellhop, handmaiden, concierge, waitress, clerk, messenger, courier, pillow fluffer, and receptionist

commuter, you forgot to add #11:the fact that you work a zillion hrs/week.that alone, will escalate the speed of burning out.please, remember that.leslie

Quote from earle58commuter, you forgot to add #11:the fact that you work a zillion hrs/week.that alone, will escalate the speed of burning out.please, remember that.leslie

Quote from TheCommuterI know, Leslie. I know that I need to lighten my workload.

ranaazha, You said it beautifully

I just completed an eight page research paper on these issues. I am so glad that they aren't going unnoticed and I really wish that things weren't the way they are with nursing. What struck a nerve with me was when my professor made the comment about the issues not being a big deal. OOH!!! What I did not want to say or do to him but I did tell him I hope you don't ever get sick......

Quote from TheCommuter7. The female domination of the nursing profession