Burnout: the case for integrating the Maslach Burnout Inventory in nurse supervision

Burnout remains a major issue in nursing, with negative effects on staff well-being, patient outcomes and organisational performance. Burnout is estimated to affect approximately one in ten nurses globally and is associated with higher sickness absence and turnover rates, reduced empathy towards patients, increased risk of errors, and poorer patient outcomes. This article reviews contemporary evidence on the prevalence, causes and effects of burnout among nurses and discusses the potential benefits of integrating the Maslach Burnout Inventory in nurse supervision as part of the solution for addressing burnout. The author outlines the elements of a structured strategy that healthcare organisations would need to put in place to identify staff at risk of (or experiencing) burnout and support them appropriately.