Factors Contributing to Emotional Burnout in Newly Registered Nurses in Australia: A Scoping Review

Journal Publication ResearchOnline@JCU
Hurley, Kate;Ahern, Tracey;Hartin, Peter
Abstract

Aim Around 15,000 graduate registered nurses enter the Australian workforce each year, forming a critical component of a sustainable and skilled workforce. However, the Australian healthcare system continues to face major challenges in the recruitment and retention of nurses. This review aimed to explore the existing literature on emotional burnout among Australian registered nurses during their first year of practice. Design A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework to map and synthesise peer-reviewed primary research on emotional burnout in graduate registered nurses. Methods A comprehensive search of five electronic databases was conducted, including CINAHL, Medline, Emcare, Scopus and PsycINFO, in December 2024. Eligible studies included primary research examining emotional burnout among Australian registered nurses during their first year of practice. Data were charted and reported through a narrative synthesis informed by thematic analysis. Results Six studies met the inclusion criteria, spanning 20 years of research. Three main themes emerged: unsupportive workplaces, role stress and workload expectations. Conclusion Without addressing the challenges that graduate registered nurses face, emotional burnout and attrition from the profession are likely to persist, placing increased pressure on the healthcare workforce.

Journal

Nursing Open

Publication Name

Nursing Open

Volume

13

ISBN/ISSN

2054-1058

Edition

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Issue

6

Pages Count

12

Location

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Publisher

Wiley

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Publisher Location

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Publish Date

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Url

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Date

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EISSN

N/A

DOI

10.1002/nop2.70619