Caretaker Burnout

Burnout – Are You Falling Prey?

Angie SzumlinskiHealth, Studies

A lot has been said about “burn-out” over the years and many studies have been inconclusive regarding how burn-out may impact resident care and safety. In a recent study[1] several interesting outcomes were observed. The study describes burnout in part as a disorder that is directly related to workplace conditions due to the occupational stress health and education workers are constantly under, mainly associated with interaction with other people. Health professionals are exhausted during work hours, and may not be able to perform effectively in providing care. 

There are many different contributors to burnout however the most common are:

  • Work environment
  • Excessive workload
  • Lack of organizational support
  • Lack of teamwork

Teamwork was identified as a positive approach to care and services that encourages collaboration and support. Everyone knows that a group of co-workers, working together side-by-side results in a more cohesive team and now we know it may reduce the risk of burn-out!

Remember, patient safety in one of the main challenges for quality of care as adverse events are common in health services. In the United States, medical errors account for more than 250,000 deaths a year! Let’s work together, take a look at what is happening on the units, review data objectively and above all, show up! Be in resident care areas getting to know your staff and residents! The influence this has on preventing burn-out and improving employee satisfaction cannot be more important!


[1] Garcia CL, Abreu LC, Ramos JLS, Castro CFD, Smiderle FRN, Santos JAD, Bezerra IMP. Influence of Burnout on Patient Safety: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Medicina (Kaunas). Aug 30, 2019;55(9).