What do nurses really want for Nurses Week? As a bedside nurse, I did not want another lackluster ice cream social or pizza party. I did not want a hospital T-shirt that I was not allowed to wear at work. What about forgoing Nurses Week and changing it to Hospital Week as some organizations have done? If we were to ask nurses what they want, what would they tell us? If I had been asked as a bedside nurse, I would have asked for adequate staffing and updated equipment. 

 

Nurse burnout has been repeatedly shown to negatively impact patient safety1. Burnout is different from workplace stress. The World Health Organization (WHO) designates burnout as a workplace circumstance rather than a personal one and defines it therefore as “feeling emotionally exhausted, cynical, and ineffective in relation to one’s work, colleagues, and clients1.” Burnout is a result of the workplace environment and how the workplace is being managed1. As a nurse, it is imperative to have sufficient staff and resources and a good relationship with management. It is essential for nurses to feel supported because burnout is related to working conditions rather than the patient population1.

  

As a critical care nurse, equipment that made my job easier and safer would have been a well-received contribution for Nurses Week. Nursing is mentally, emotionally, and physically demanding. Since burnout not only affects nurses, but also patients and organizations, it would make sense to provide nurses with quality equipment2.

  

One way to help nurses with their demanding role is to provide them with equipment that automates nursing tasks.Turn Medical is passionate about equipping nurses with tools to turn patients toward positive outcomes. We are thankful for our nursing colleagues and wish you a happy and healthy Nurse’s Month!