Prevention of Burnout Syndrome in Nurses to Improve Patient Safety and Care

Author

Mallory N. Alton

Publication Date

1-1-2020

Document Type

Dissertation/Thesis

First Advisor

Cooke, Marcia

Degree Name

B.S. (Bachelor of Science)

Legacy Department

School of Nursing and Health Studies

Abstract

The purpose of this literature review is to identify strategies that have been shown to prevent burnout syndrome in nurses in order improve overall patient safety and care. Burnout syndrome can be defined as a physical, mental, and emotional state caused by chronic overwork and a sustained lack of job fulfillment and support. With prevention strategies identified, nurses can work to decrease work-associated stress and increase performance levels in order to achieve better patient outcomes. The shortage of available openings in nursing schools has led to a growing gap between the supply and demand for skilled nurses. Because of this, many hospitals and health care facilities are inundated with more work than they can handle (Writers, 2019). This overload of stressful situations in the workplace is ultimately what leads to burnout syndrome. When stress is not a major factor, nurses are less likely to make mistakes on the job and; therefore, provide improved care while keeping patients safe. Although the way a stressful event is perceived depends on individual characteristics, resilience, and coping skills, interventions can be used to decrease overall stress levels in an individual. Types of interventions include stress management programs, communication skills training, professional identity development programs, changes in work environments, and teamwork development courses. This literature review will incorporate and discuss clinically proven ways to prevent burnout syndrome in nurses.

Recommended Citation

Alton, Mallory N., "Prevention of Burnout Syndrome in Nurses to Improve Patient Safety and Care" (2020). Honors Capstones. 915.
https://huskiecommons.lib.niu.edu/studentengagement-honorscapstones/915

Extent

9 pages

Language

eng

Publisher

Northern Illinois University

Rights Statement

In Copyright

Rights Statement 2

NIU theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from Huskie Commons for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without the written permission of the authors.

Media Type

Text