Directors of Nursing experiences of work environment, burnout and turnover intention in the long-term care sector

Abstract Background Burnout syndrome is defined as an emotional response to chronic stress, however research on the extent of this problem among Directors of Nursing in the long-term care (LTC) sector is limited. The intent of this study was to contribute to a better understanding of factors associated with burnout in Directors of Nursing in the LTC sector. Methods This study is part of a broader multi-phase mixed methods research study. This component involved a cross-sectional online survey, data was collected using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) measuring three dimensions of burnout emotional exhaustion (EE) depersonalization (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA), the Nurse Manager Practice Environment Scale (NMPES) and the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale -9 (UWES-9). The sample population consisted of 195 directors of nursing and assistant directors of nursing from the LTC sector in the Republic of Ireland. Results Among those surveyed the mean EE subscale was 26.9 (SD;12.8), DP subscale was 7.24 (SD;6.10) and the mean PA subscale was 35.4 (SD;7.47). For this cohort the mean EE subscale was significantly higher than the published normative data for the MBI 22.19 (SD;9.53). Factors significantly associated with directors of nursing intention to leave their current position were a lower UWES-9 score (OR 0.18; 95% CI 0.05-0.70), a lower NMPES total score (OR 0.11; 95% CI 0.02-0.68) and higher EE total score (OR 1.21; 95% CI 1.06-1.37) Conclusion Nurse managers presented with increased levels of burnout, manifested by feelings of higher emotional exhaustion. Psychological and work-related factors such as staffing shortages, staff turnover and recruitment, scope of responsibility, general feeling of being unsupported, and lack of protected time off work may play an important role in the development of this syndrome. Addressing factors associated with burnout in nurse managers is essential in order to maintain adequate healthcare delivery in the long-term care sector.