5 Common Situations That Can Cause CNA Burnout

Common situations that can cause CNA burnout include long work hours, heavy work loads, problems with coworkers, stress and problems with supervisors.
5 Common Situations That Can Cause CNA Burnout

If you have decided to become a CNA, you most likely chose the career because you have a desire to help people in need. You may also be looking forward to the many emotional rewards that a CNA position can provide. However, while working as a nurse aide, you need to know that there may be situations that can cause burnout if handled incorrectly.

The good news is that when you can recognize these common causes of CNA burnout, you can take the proper steps to control them and even turn them around to work in your favor! So, just what are the most common situations that can cause CNA job burnout? Listed below, you will find five of the most common causes and brief descriptions of how to handle them effectively.

  1. Long Work Hours - Perhaps the most common complaint among CNAs today is that they do not have any time for anything outside of work. If you are working more than 40 hours per week and have done so for a long period of time, you very well could experience job burnout. If this is the case with you, speak with your boss and ask for a lighter work schedule. Asking for two days off in a row can go a long way in helping you recuperate as well.
  2. Heavy Work Loads - Another situation that can quickly cause CNA burnout is a heavy work load. This is a common occurrence for CNAs, especially those who work night shifts when personnel is kept at a minimum. Fortunately, there are a couple of things you can do to correct this problem. First of all, learn to prioritize your work duties. Perform all of your most important tasks first. For especially difficult tasks, ask for help from a coworker.
  3. Problems With Coworkers - At times, you may find that you simply cannot get along with one of your coworkers no matter how hard you try. Depending on your unique situation, the best thing to do if you are experiencing this problem is to speak with your immediate supervisor. If you continue to have a problem with the coworker after talking with your supervisor, you may want to consider being switched to another shift.
  4. Stress, Fatigue and Depression - Stress can lead to CNA job burnout as well. CNA careers can be highly stressful at times, which can cause a number of issues including chronic fatigue and depression. If you are feeling particularly stressed out due to your job, take some time out for yourself. Ask for a day off to visit a friend, partake in a favorite activity or take in a movie. If your stress has developed into chronic fatigue or depression, consider one or more of the following ways to handle the problem.
    • Ask for a Reduction in Hours
    • Join a Support Group
    • Seek Professional Counseling
    • Take a Vacation (if you are able to)
  5. Problems With Supervisors - This is probably the trickiest situation of all when trying to handle CNA burnout. What do you do if your problem is that you cannot get along with your boss? Unfortunately, the only solution to this problem in most cases is to find another place to work. While you may be able to speak with your boss and solve the issue at hand, hard feelings may persist. However, if you do decide to locate other employment, be sure to give your present employer ample notice before leaving.

Conclusion

Common situations that can cause CNA burnout include long work hours, heavy work loads, problems with coworkers, stress and problems with supervisors.

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