What does the concept of "burnout" in nursing practice refer to?

The concept of "burnout" in nursing practice specifically refers to prolonged stress that manifests as emotional exhaustion and a decline in job performance. In a demanding and often high-pressure environment like healthcare, nurses may experience overwhelming stress due to various factors such as high patient loads, emotional strain from patient care, and internal or institutional challenges. This accumulation of stress over time can lead to feelings of cynicism, detachment from work, and a sense of ineffectiveness. Therefore, burnout signifies a deeper, chronic condition rather than a transient feeling of exhaustion or an increase in job satisfaction. Recognizing and addressing burnout is essential for maintaining both nurse well-being and quality patient care.