The post-holiday season brings unique challenges for healthcare facilities. While the holidays may rejuvenate some, the increased workload and emotional toll can lead to burnout for healthcare professionals. As healthcare leaders, addressing post-holiday burnout is vital to maintaining staff morale, improving workplace well-being, and delivering high-quality patient care. Below, we outline actionable strategies to combat burnout effectively.
Understand the Causes of Post-Holiday Burnout in Healthcare
Burnout in healthcare is a growing concern, with post-holiday challenges often exacerbating the issue. Here are some of the most common causes:
- Increased workload: The holiday season often leaves behind backlogs and higher patient volumes, creating a spike in stress. With team members also taking time off during this season or calling out, the remainder of your staff may likely feel the pressure of the increased workload.
- Emotional and physical exhaustion: Balancing holiday demands and professional responsibilities can drain healthcare workers, leaving little room for recovery. This time of year may already be difficult for your staff, making it easier for them to feel emotionally drained before even stepping foot in the door.
- Lack of work-life balance: Transitioning from holiday relaxation to demanding schedules can disrupt work-life harmony. Plus, with the potential for having family in town and delivering the magic of the season, home life may not be the full recharge many seek when they venture home after a long day.
- Staffing shortages: Persistent shortages amplify workloads, with an estimated 60% of healthcare support workers expected to leave their jobs between 2023 and 2028, according to a nationwide study commissioned by Ultimate Medical Academy.1 This stretches resources thin and increases pressure on existing staff.
Implement Strategies To Prevent and Manage Burnout
Preventing and addressing burnout requires a comprehensive, proactive approach. Here are some healthcare burnout prevention strategies to consider that can better balance workloads during and after the holiday season.
Encourage Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Promoting self-care isn’t just about individual well-being, it’s about fostering a culture where personal time is valued. While each individual’s needs and ideal work-life balance differ, employers can do certain things to help promote this balance.
This may include encouraging staff to take breaks, use vacation days, and engage in enjoyable activities. Even something as small as a gift card or certificate can help promote this positive self-care (and it has the bonus of reinforcing that you and the company care about their well-being). Additionally, you can organize fun, low-pressure events, such as potlucks or wellness workshops, to rebuild camaraderie after the holidays.
Foster a Supportive Work Environment
Healthcare leaders can create a culture where employees feel valued and heard. Some ways to accomplish that include:
- Open communication: Regularly check in with employees through team meetings and one-on-one sessions to identify concerns early.
- Mental health programs: Offer on-site counseling, stress management in healthcare workshops, or employee wellness programs.
- Manager training: Equip leaders with tools to recognize burnout and intervene with compassion and understanding.
Optimize Staffing and Workload
Overburdened staff need tangible solutions to reduce their workload. This can transform their experience from feeling like they’re drowning in their tasks without a work-life balance to knowing that the company and team have their back and can help them get through the increased workload. Here are some things you can do to act as that metaphorical life preserver:
- Distribute the workload: Evaluate staffing patterns and allocate tasks equitably to alleviate pressure.
- Utilize flexible staffing solutions: Partner with staffing agencies, such as Medix, to fill gaps efficiently.
- Implement effective scheduling practices: Use advanced scheduling software to ensure fair shift rotations and prevent overscheduling.
Leverage Technology To Streamline Workflows
Technology can be a game-changer in reducing administrative burdens and streamlining operations.
Automate Tasks
Digital solutions can reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks, allowing staff to focus on patient care. Examples include automated billing systems and electronic health records with insights powered by artificial intelligence.
Enhance Communication
Adopt digital platforms, such as secure messaging apps, to facilitate real-time team communication, supporting quick resolutions and smoother workflows. Ensure that the facility has effective wireless networking and incorporates wireless wearable sensors to help team members better respond to situations and communicate with one another.
Improve Data Management
Implement tools to simplify data entry and reporting, minimizing the risk of errors and reducing cognitive overload. Popular solutions include cloud-based software that integrates seamlessly across departments. Additionally, sensors, devices, and instruments that transmit health-related data to your company’s internal network securely can help improve data management.
Promote a Culture of Resilience and Gratitude
A workplace culture rooted in resilience and appreciation fosters long-term engagement and morale. Here are some ways to boost your team’s resilience.
Recognize Achievements
Celebrating successes boosts morale and reinforces a sense of purpose. Implementing employee appreciation programs, such as monthly awards, thank-you notes, and public acknowledgments, motivates staff. Encouraging staff to highlight their colleagues’ contributions builds a supportive community.
Emphasize Resilience
Offer training on resilience skills, such as stress management and emotional regulation. Resilient teams are better equipped to handle challenges without succumbing to burnout.
Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledging everyday efforts reminds employees their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, fostering pride and job satisfaction. For example, ending the workday as a team and highlighting the small wins some or all team members accomplish during the day helps them feel appreciated for their daily efforts.
Take Action: Prioritize Employee Well-Being and Prevent Burnout
Combating post-holiday burnout is not just a short-term fix; it’s an ongoing commitment to your staff’s well-being. Key strategies include:
- Encouraging self-care and work-life balance
- Building a supportive and communicative work environment
- Optimizing staffing and scheduling
- Leveraging technology to reduce administrative burdens
- Fostering a culture of resilience and gratitude
Addressing burnout improves employee satisfaction and translates into better patient care. As a trusted partner, Medix offers tailored staffing solutions to support your team. Contact us to explore how we can help your healthcare facility combat burnout and build a thriving, resilient workforce.
Resources:
- “Healthcare News of Note: Healthcare organizations continue to deal with turnover and workforce shortages,” Healthcare Financial Management Association, July 21, 2023, https://www.hfma.org/leadership/healthcare-news-of-note-healthcare-organizations-continue-to-deal-with-turnover-and-workforce-shortages/
