Stress and burnout in nurse anesthesia
Anthony Chipas1, Dennis McKenna
1Division of Anesthesia for Nurses, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA. chipas@musc.edu
AANA Journal
|May 13, 2011
Summary
This study investigated stress levels and coping mechanisms among Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and students. Findings inform future wellness interventions to support these healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Occupational Health
- Psychology
Background:
- High stress levels are prevalent in healthcare professions.
- Nurse anesthetists face unique occupational stressors.
- Understanding stress and coping is vital for provider well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess current stress levels and physical manifestations in Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) and student nurse anesthetists.
- To identify common coping mechanisms utilized by these professionals.
- To provide data for developing targeted wellness interventions.
Main Methods:
- Online survey (Stress and Burnout Survey) administered via SurveyMonkey.
- Data collected from February to May 2008.
- Survey distributed electronically to approximately 28,000 nurse anesthesia providers, yielding 7,537 responses (26.9% response rate).
Main Results:
- Quantified the prevalence and nature of stress experienced by CRNAs and students.
- Identified specific physical manifestations linked to occupational stress.
- Documented various coping strategies employed by participants.
Conclusions:
- The study provides a benchmark for stress levels within the CRNA profession.
- Results highlight the need for tailored wellness programs and support systems.
- Recommendations are proposed for the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists and individual practitioners.
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