EHR issues linked to rising nurse burnout rates
UTAH, UNITED STATES — A recent report by Klas Research highlights a growing concern in the healthcare industry: nearly one-third of nurses experiencing burnout symptoms attribute their struggles to electronic health records (EHRs).
This report’s data was collected from 171 healthcare organizations between 2021 and 2023.
The report underscores the significant impact EHRs have on nurses’ mental well-being, with 40% of those affected contemplating leaving their organizations within the next two years.
Nurses lack training, voice in EHR governance
A critical issue identified in the report is the lack of influence nurses feel they have over EHR governance. A striking 65% of surveyed nurses expressed that they do not have a voice in EHR changes, and 39% feel unable to request necessary fixes.
This lack of control over a vital tool in their daily work contributes significantly to their dissatisfaction and burnout.
Training, or the lack thereof, is another major concern. Nearly 40% of nurses reported insufficient ongoing EHR education, while 42% found their initial training inadequate.
Furthermore, 32% noted that the training they received was not tailored to their specific workflow, exacerbating the challenges they face in using these systems effectively.
Technical issues increase administrative burden
Technological issues such as slow loading times and unplanned system downtimes are common complaints among nurses.
According to the survey, 40% of nurses reported that their EHR systems do not meet expected response times, and nearly a quarter questioned the reliability of their records.
These technical problems add to the administrative burden, increasing the risk of burnout.
These findings have significant implications for healthcare systems already grappling with workforce shortages and increased labor costs following the COVID-19 pandemic. The stress and burnout experienced by nurses could lead to higher turnover rates, further straining healthcare resources.
EHR upgrades fall short of expectations
Despite some improvements in nurse satisfaction with EHRs over the past three years, the report indicates ongoing issues with system reliability and training. Additionally, 67% of respondents did not believe that recent upgrades improved the EHR experience, and over 70% felt that optimizations were not implemented swiftly enough.
Communication about changes also remains a problem, with half of the respondents stating that EHR modifications were not well communicated.
Strategies for improvement
Addressing these concerns is crucial for healthcare organizations aiming to retain their nursing staff and ensure high-quality patient care.
By enhancing training programs, improving system reliability, and involving nurses in EHR governance, healthcare systems can mitigate burnout risks and foster a more supportive work environment.
As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, addressing the challenges posed by EHRs is essential to maintaining a satisfied and effective nursing workforce. Implementing strategic changes can help alleviate the stress and burnout associated with these systems, ultimately benefiting both healthcare providers and patients.
