The Effects of the Work Environment on Nurse Burnout in Emergency Department

Abstract

Objective: Nursing is considered as a risky profession with high levels of burnout. This study examines the relationship between burnout and work environment among nurses working in emergency departments (EDs) in Istanbul.
Method: The subjects were emergency department nurses who met the research criteria (n=132). Data were collected by questionnaire to determine the demographic characteristics of the subjects as well as their emotions and opinions about their Professional life. Nurses’ burnout was measured by the Maslach Burnout Inventory and nurses’ work environment was determined by the Work Environment Scale.
Results: In this study Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization levels have been found low in nurses who like their job and work places and with longer duration of Professional work. On the other hand, hard working conditions or unexpected overtime, inability to spare time for social activities, dissatisfaction of socio-economic situation and having trouble with team members were all associated with increased levels of Emotional Exhaustion and Depersonalization. It was found that there were significant positive relationship between Work Environment Scale-Employee Fears states and Emotional Exhaustion with Depersonalization; Work Environment Scale-Job Satisfaction state and Emotional Exhaustion, and significant negative relationship between Work Environment Scale-Quality Management, Professional Relationships and Physical Resources states and Emotional Exhaustion, Depersonalization and Personal Accomplishment (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Personal qualifications and volunteerism should be considered when selecting nurses working in the emergency departments. In an emergency department it have seen that equipment, adequate space and number of employees, which facilitates the treatment and care of patients, have positive impact on nurse’s burnout levels. Time allocation opportunity for participation in social activities or hobbies should be given to the employees. Incompatibility and conflict within the team should be avoided by properly setting the job descriptions of the team members.