Assessing Emotional Intelligence and Reducing Burnout in Nursing Students Through Simulation-Based Learning...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Healthcare Professional Development
• Student Well-being

Background:

• Academic burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced accomplishment, affects nearly half of nursing students.
• The demanding nature of nursing programs necessitates strategies to mitigate burnout and cultivate resilient future healthcare professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of Simulation-Based Learning Experiences (SBLE) on reducing burnout among nursing students.
• To assess the relationship between emotional intelligence and burnout in this population.

Main Methods:

• An experimental study compared nursing students in an SBLE group versus a traditional instruction control group.
• Emotional intelligence was measured using the Trait Meta-Mood Scale, and burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey.
• Data were collected at baseline and post-intervention for 240 participants.

Main Results:

• The SBLE group showed significant decreases in emotional exhaustion (p < 0.001) and cynicism (p < 0.001), and a significant increase in perceived efficacy (p < 0.001).
• No significant changes in burnout dimensions were observed in the control group.
• Repeated-measures ANOVA confirmed the intervention's significant impact on burnout (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• Simulation-Based Learning Experiences are a highly effective strategy for mitigating burnout in nursing students.
• SBLE promotes improved emotional well-being and professional efficacy, crucial for developing competent healthcare providers.