Volume 28, Issue 4 (10-2025)
J Arak Uni Med Sci 2025, 28(4): 0-0 |
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Seyednazari M A, Dorosti A M. When Caregivers Need Care: The Hidden Challenges of Nurses in the Workplace. J Arak Uni Med Sci 2025; 28 (4)
URL: http://jams.arakmu.ac.ir/article-1-8040-en.html
URL: http://jams.arakmu.ac.ir/article-1-8040-en.html
1- Research and Technology Committee, Khoy School of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
2- Research and Technology Committee, Khoy School of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran ,amirdorosti2006@gmail.com
2- Research and Technology Committee, Khoy School of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran ,
Abstract: (80 Views)
Nurses, as one of the main pillars of the healthcare system, have always been at the forefront of delivering medical services. However, recent studies reveal that this professional group is facing serious challenges in terms of mental health and job satisfaction, largely due to structural and systemic failures in the workplace (1). During the COVID-19 pandemic, burnout among nurses was reported at significantly high levels: 34.1% experienced emotional exhaustion, and 12.6% reported a loss of professional identity. These figures reflect not only a temporary crisis but also chronic deficiencies within the healthcare system (2).
Key factors exacerbating nurse burnout include workforce shortages, inadequate resources, and workplace violence
(3, 4). The global shortage of nurses is estimated at around 5.9 million, placing excessive pressure on the remaining staff. Additionally, lack of resources and specialized training—especially during times of crisis—pose significant risks for increased burnout. Workplace violence, particularly in emergency departments and psychiatric units, is on the rise, and many reports suggest that the actual number of incidents is much higher than what is officially recorded (2, 5).
The consequences of these conditions extend beyond the personal health of nurses, threatening the quality and safety of patient care. Meta-analyses have shown significant associations between nurse burnout and reduced patient safety, increased hospital-acquired infections, and medication errors (5). Furthermore, only 50% of nurses in 2021 felt that their organizations prioritized their health and safety (1).
The mental health crisis among nurses is also alarming. Rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia are considerably higher in this group compared to other professions. Predictive factors include understaffing, excessive workload, workplace violence, and lack of organizational support. In addition, the stigma surrounding mental health services acts as a major barrier for nurses seeking professional help (6).
Effective solutions include adjusting nurse-to-patient ratios, banning mandatory overtime, enforcing zero-tolerance policies against workplace violence, and strengthening managerial support. For example, California’s implementation of minimum nurse-to-patient ratio laws has led to increased direct care time, better patient outcomes, and higher nurse retention. Emphasis must shift from merely increasing nurse numbers to retaining the current workforce—a crucial step in healthcare reform.
In conclusion, considering the critical importance of nurses’ health and its direct impact on patient care, structural and supportive reforms must be prioritized by health policymakers and administrators.
Key factors exacerbating nurse burnout include workforce shortages, inadequate resources, and workplace violence
(3, 4). The global shortage of nurses is estimated at around 5.9 million, placing excessive pressure on the remaining staff. Additionally, lack of resources and specialized training—especially during times of crisis—pose significant risks for increased burnout. Workplace violence, particularly in emergency departments and psychiatric units, is on the rise, and many reports suggest that the actual number of incidents is much higher than what is officially recorded (2, 5).
The consequences of these conditions extend beyond the personal health of nurses, threatening the quality and safety of patient care. Meta-analyses have shown significant associations between nurse burnout and reduced patient safety, increased hospital-acquired infections, and medication errors (5). Furthermore, only 50% of nurses in 2021 felt that their organizations prioritized their health and safety (1).
The mental health crisis among nurses is also alarming. Rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and insomnia are considerably higher in this group compared to other professions. Predictive factors include understaffing, excessive workload, workplace violence, and lack of organizational support. In addition, the stigma surrounding mental health services acts as a major barrier for nurses seeking professional help (6).
Effective solutions include adjusting nurse-to-patient ratios, banning mandatory overtime, enforcing zero-tolerance policies against workplace violence, and strengthening managerial support. For example, California’s implementation of minimum nurse-to-patient ratio laws has led to increased direct care time, better patient outcomes, and higher nurse retention. Emphasis must shift from merely increasing nurse numbers to retaining the current workforce—a crucial step in healthcare reform.
In conclusion, considering the critical importance of nurses’ health and its direct impact on patient care, structural and supportive reforms must be prioritized by health policymakers and administrators.
Keywords: Burnout, Nurse Mental Health, Staff Shortage, Workplace Violence, Organizational Support, Patient Safety, Healthcare System
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