Recognized as the foundation of the healthcare profession, nurses play a pivotal role in delivering the largest percentage of long-term care services in the United States. Studies suggest that those in the nursing profession are predisposed to burnout given the high-stress nature of their work and their work environment, which could significantly impact their ability to provide quality patient care, including those in long-term care settings. As one predictor of burnout, researchers studied the self-reported level of depersonalization of nurses and factors that might be potentially associated. Using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey for Medical Personnel, the perception of nurses was gauged regarding their feelings towards patients in the initial phases of COVID-19. Findings revealed that nurses aged 54 years and younger reported higher rates of depersonalization. Although, on the whole, nurses in different levels and across varying specialties reported moderate levels of depersonalization, they seemingly maintained concern and empathy for their patients. Existing literature supports the ongoing need for additional research and evidence-based interventions to address symptoms of burnout, such as depersonalization, among nurses. Key strategies include the implementation of flexible work schedules and promoting stress relief and stress management programs.

Authors:
Sandra Collins, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, United States
Kevin Collins, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Sandra Collins, Professor and Program Director of Health Care Management, Health Administration and Health Informatics at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Her current projects include use of virtual reality in long term care.

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