University of Michigan
A recent survey conducted by the University of Michigan School of Nursing reveals that an overwhelming ninety-four percent of Michigan nurses are grappling with emotional exhaustion, with younger nurses facing burnout at significantly higher rates than their older counterparts.
Christopher Friese, principal investigator and U-M professor of nursing and public health, expressed concern, stating, “I’ve been studying nurse burnout for 20 years and these are among the highest numbers I’ve seen.”
The study, which delved into emotional exhaustion, thoughts of self-harm, overall wellness, and potential interventions, highlights the urgent need for evidence-based system-level interventions to safeguard nurses’ health and well-being.
Key findings from the study, based on data collected from the Michigan Nurses’ Survey in 2022, underscore the impact of workplace conditions on burnout:
- Inadequate staffing, reduced psychological safety, and younger age were linked to emotional exhaustion.
- Instances of physical abuse at work were associated with thoughts of self-harm.
- Factors such as employer support, positive practice environments, and effective coping strategies correlated with higher wellness scores.
- Nurses in workplaces with sufficient staffing and resources were 18% less likely to experience burnout.
- Approximately 10% of nurses reported thoughts of self-harm.
- Engaging in hobbies and spending time with loved ones correlated with better outcomes, while increased sleep or TV time did not.
Younger nurses were disproportionately affected, with higher rates of burnout and self-harm thoughts, underscoring the need for more supportive workplaces. To address this, employers must prioritize safer staffing, flexible roles, improved compensation, and stronger management support, according to respondents.
Michigan is considering staffing legislation for nurses, signaling potential improvements in working conditions. However, more needs to be done to address the prevalent issue of workplace violence, which contributes significantly to burnout and self-harm among nurses.
The study’s publication in the American Journal of Public Health sheds light on the urgent need for systemic changes to safeguard nurses’ well-being, calling for concerted efforts from healthcare institutions and policymakers alike.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 800-273-8255.
Source: University of Michigan
Journal Reference: Titler, M. G., et al. (2024) Registered Nurses’ Well-Being, Michigan, 2022. American Journal of Public Health. doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307376.
