A licensed practical/vocational nurse is working in a busy medical–surgical unit and wants to prevent nursing burnout. Which steps should the nurse take? Select all that apply

Question

A) Use a close friend who listens so the nurse may vent during times of high stress.
B) Work longer hours so all tasks may be accomplished.
C) Discuss work-related issues with other nurses and administration to problem solve to make the work environment better.
D) Take breaks, use relaxation techniques during the break to help relieve stress.
E) Apply for other positions in other institutions.

Answer 1

Ans: A, C, D
Feedback:
Nursing burnout may occur on busy high acuity units, which become understaffed, or when nurses are not appreciated for their experience by resident physicians or others who may ignore what they have to say. Often times the nurse who is a perfectionist wants everything done just right for all of the clients, and often feels to be perceived as being "weak" if he/she asks for help from others. Nurses need to approach the nursing care as a team and support each other. The team needs to always look for the signs of burnout and always be willing to help each other. It is best for a nurse to have a close friend who listens so the nurse may vent about the stress and work situation, but not identify any of the clients. Working longer will add to the burnout. Involving the team to identify the problems of the work environment and eliciting help from administration to provide solutions is the best way to decrease the hectic work environment that increases the stress and burnout. Taking a break when stress builds and use relaxation techniques is helpful to reenergize. Jumping from one unit with problems to another is not helpful because all units experience problems from time to time.