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Workforce Issues

Understanding burnout in nurses: identification and coping strategies

20 February 2025
Professional
02 February 2025
Volume 34 · Issue 4

Abstract

Burnout, a psychological syndrome caused by prolonged exposure to chronic workplace stressors, is a prevalent issue in nursing, characterised by emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and a diminished sense of accomplishment. This article explores the widespread impact of burnout in nursing, identifying its key indicators and consequences for both nurses and patient care. Furthermore, it evaluates evidence-based management strategies, including organisational interventions, resilience training, and peer support programmes, aimed at mitigating burnout and improving outcomes.

Burnout is a psychological syndrome arising from prolonged exposure to chronic workplace stressors, widely recognised as a critical concern in nursing. Maslach and Jackson (1981) first defined it as a condition characterised by emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and a reduced sense of personal accomplishment. Although there is general agreement on the core components of burnout, debates persist regarding its precise definition and applicability across different professional contexts, including nursing (Maslach and Leiter, 2016). Nurses are particularly susceptible to burnout due to the physically and emotionally demanding nature of their roles, often exacerbated by long hours, high patient-to-staff ratios, and emotionally charged environments. The consequences of burnout extend beyond individual wellbeing, significantly impairing patient care quality (Babapour et al, 2022). This article explores the prevalence and indicators of burnout in nursing, highlighting effective strategies for its management, including organisational policies, resilience-building programmes, and fostering supportive workplace cultures.

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Nursing
Coping strategies
Burnout