Interventions for nursing practice problems.

Abstract

This study examined the effect of designated interventions in nursing practice problems on levels of burnout in nurses. A battery of tests measuring burnout, self-esteem, depression, personal accomplishment, depersonalization, and emotional exhaustion were given to nurses in experimental and control groups. Pre- and post-test data were gathered for both groups. The treatment included a 2-day conference which was designed as a respite experience to address problems specific to the nursing profession. Results indicate significantly less burnout, less frequency of depersonalization, and significantly greater frequency of personal accomplishment in the scores of the experimental group relative to the control group. This study shows that specific interventions can be used to benefit the emotional well-being of nurses by providing them with a respite opportunity and the skills to manage key stressors in their professional environment.