Date of Graduation

Spring 5-20-2022

Document Access

Project/Capstone - Global access

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

MSN project

First Advisor

Dr. Nicole Beamish, DNP, APRN, PHN, CNL

Abstract

Problem: Burnout within healthcare has been an existing phenomenon, contributing to increased hospital staff turnover rates and the nationwide nursing shortage. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated this issue leading to a decrease in the quality of patient care, nurse satisfaction, and organizational financial security.

Context: At a South Bay Area public healthcare system, staff were displaced throughout the community to support the overflow of COVID-19 patients at ambulatory clinics. Due to the nature of COVID-19, this healthcare system has experienced barriers in maintaining available staff for the demand of work. Studies indicate that signs of increased stress and burnout observed in the microsystem should be targeted with mental health interventions implemented by supportive team members.

Interventions: The project aimed to reduce COVID-19 nurse burnout scores and address mental health crises among the nurse workforce by implementing evidence-based strategies that incorporate Mental Health Champions (MHC) and mid-shift huddle temperature checks.

Measures: The team utilized a mixed-methods data collection tool. A microsystem needs assessment was conducted to explore the areas of feelings of perceived stress and burnout within the organization. Data collection consisted of an anonymous, modified Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) survey and semi-structured staff interviews for pre-and post-intervention measures of burnout.

Results: Post-intervention results showed a decrease in the overall rate of burnout for four out of five measures within the intervention group. Three of the measures met the project’s goal of reducing burnout scores by 15% or more. All participants reported the benefits of having a temperature check during a shift.

Conclusions: The intervention had positive effects on improving burnout scores in the staff studied. Utilizing these interventions could reduce nurse turnover spending and increase the overall quality of care. Strong management support is essential to the psychological wellness of nurses and should continue to prioritize improving conditions and recognizing burnout.

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