Burnout in Nursing

We are continuously reminded and informed about the increasing nursing shortages in Canada. With a large amount of nurses retiring in the next decade this problem is only highlighted. One of the many problems this shortage will lead to is burnout. As there are many benefits and rewarding moments in nursing, it is also a high stress career. The shortage leads to a lower nurse-patient ratio and in turn a higher work load on each nurse. This can lead to exhaustion and frustration throughout a nurse’s long hours worked. In time these negative feeling may lead to job satisfaction and burnout. As a student nurse I have high anticipation to finally go out and start work in a hospital. With the knowledge of the nursing shortage, and the increase risk for burnout, I will do as much as possible to stop this from happening to myself. I will take time each day to reflect on my work, and relax to relieve my own stress.