Date of Graduation

5-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Degree Level

Undergraduate

Department

Nursing

Advisor/Mentor

Dunbar, Diana

Committee Member/Reader

Bemis, Sarah

Abstract

Emergency departments (ED) are usually considered high stress environments. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying challenges such as frequent exposure to the novel virus, lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), being over worked and underpaid, and the uncertainty surrounding the overall trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic have resulted in an increased level of burnout for ED staff, especially nurses. This study involves a meta-analysis of current literature surrounding ED burnout including incidence rate and causes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Because studies indicate upwards of three fourths of ED staff reporting increased stress and burnout, finding ways to overcome and prevent burnout is essential to protecting ED nurses’ physical and mental health. A lack of studies from the United States (U.S.) indicates a potential gap in research and more research needs to be conducted focused on potential solutions and preventive measures of the burnout crisis.

Keywords

COVID-19; emergency department; pandemic; burnout; nurse

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