Persistent therapy as a factor determining the phenomenon of occupational burnout in nurses

Abstract

Introduction. The results of modern research show that the phenomenon of occupational burnout applies to various professional groups and specialties. The common distinguishing feature of these professions is their psychosocial nature, which requires constant focus on other people's problems. This phenomenon is a serious problem faced by nurses participating in the therapeutic process directed towards chronically ill patients, especially when they take on the features of persistent therapy.

The aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the opinions of nursing staff on the use of futile therapy and its impact on the phenomenon of occupational burnout.

Materials and methods. The respondents were a group of 100 nurses who worked in the Intensive Care and Palliative Care ward in Inowroclaw. The age of the study participants ranged from 25 to 60 years. The method used in the above study was a diagnostic survey. The research tool was a questionnaire for measuring the scale of Occupational Feelings (MBI).

Results. For most respondents, i.e., 85%, working with patients at the end of their lives is a source of emotional exhaustion. In addition, the respondents pointed to the most frequent symptoms with the greatest intensity: fatigue and a sense of dissatisfaction, a decrease in motivation to work and satisfaction with its performance. Fatigue symptoms appeared in 48% despite a night's rest. 69% of the respondents feel physically and mentally exhausted working all day with patients in a severe clinical condition. For many respondents, i.e. 65%, work with direct contact with the patient is associated with strong stress. Almost half of the respondents, 45%, feel emotional exhaustion, describing it as functioning on the edge of strength.

Conclusions. The most frequently indicated stress factors in the work of nurses are excess of duties, responsibility for the health of another human being, participation in activities where therapy does not bring the expected results.