Work Stress, Crisis and Burnout among Nurses of Critical Care Units

Abstract

In today’s technological advanced world, life seems to be filled with problems, frustrations and demands. Being stressed out has become a very common phenomenon. Nursing is generally perceived as a stressful and demanding profession. Nurses often express that the critical care unit is challenging and rewarding place to work, but at the same time it is also stressful work area. Rapidly changing technological advances, need for rapid decision making and continuous noise from different machines, staff conversation and emotional reactions that takes place while dealing with life and death situations place a lot of stress on the nurses working in these units. These above Stressors initiate the body’s stress response and the experience of stress. In health care organizations, work stress may contribute to absenteeism and turnover, both of which detract from the quality of care by turning toxic work environment into healthy workplaces, stress can be better managed well. Verities of stress management strategies are Humour, Relaxing technique, Exercise, Nutritious food, Positive thinking, Proper time management etc. If stress cannot be managed well then it can lead to conditions called Crisis and Burnout. Crisis results when coping mechanisms do not allow the person to reach to a lower level of anxiety. Outcome of crisis depends on the person deals with crisis and what outside support is available during the period. Burnout is a psychological state of overwhelmed, emotional listlessness and depression resulting from prolonged exposure to excessive work place and lifestyle demands. Though the syndrome is related to working condition but affect both personal and professional life. Treatment and prevention of Burnout are Changing work patterns, Developing coping skills, Obtaining social support, Utilizing relaxation strategies, Promoting good health and fitness and Developing a better self‐understanding.