Burnout in the New Graduate Nurse

Abstract

Burnout is a psychological syndrome caused by prolonged exposure to chronic stress at work. It is often characterized by emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and inefficacy. New graduate nurses in the acute care setting are especially vulnerable to burnout early on in their careers. Heavy patient workloads, which are often exacerbated by a shortage in staffing, contribute to high levels of job stress. Workplace bullying (WPB), which also contributes to high levels of job stress, has a negative impact on new graduate nurses’ productivity and emotional well-being and often leads to worklife interference and burnout. Nurse burnout has been linked to decreased job satisfaction, increased turnover intention, and poor patient outcomes. The purpose of this project was to determine how new graduate nurse burnout can affect job satisfaction, self-efficacy, and quality of care. Our intention was to identify prevention and intervention techniques to decrease burnout in the new graduate nurse. Through an extensive literature search, current research suggests that authentic leadership plays an important role in promoting a healthy work environment. The implementation of authentic leadership training may promote self-efficacy and lead to greater job satisfaction among new graduate nurses.