Factors related to nursing burnout: a review of empirical knowledge

It has been observed that nurses are at a high risk of burnout. The initiator variables of burnout appear to be numerous, tenacious, and not isolated; burnout is a complex phenomenon with multiple dimensions. In order to prevent psychosocial dysfunction and promote the mental health of nurses, the predominant factors contributing to nursing burnout should be clear. This article presents a literature review of the existing empirical knowledge regarding factors related to burnout in nurses. Among 300 documents on nursing burnout, 36 pertinent studies were retained. Amid these studies, 15 variables were selected, classified, and critically analyzed. It appears that the best correlates of nursing burnout are role ambiguity, workload, age, hardiness, active coping, and social support. Probable relationships and influences among these factors are discussed and may lead to a better understanding of mutual interactions between the personal and environmental factors contributing to nursing burnout. Implications for practice and further research are proposed.