Burnout has become the defining struggle of the nursing profession in recent years, a phenomenon that philosopher-turned nurse Mark Lazenby knows too well. Source: ACU.
On numerous occasions throughout his career, the emotional toll of nursing has cast doubt on Professor Lazenby’s calling to healthcare.
“Healthcare is both deeply rewarding and emotionally taxing. The very qualities that make it meaningful – compassion, ethical engagement, and human connection – can also leave us susceptible to burnout,” Professor Lazenby said.
But one unique concept has helped sustain his passion for nursing.
This month, Professor Lazenby will explore the concept of rational compassion as a strategy for a sustainable nursing workforce in a webinar co-hosted by the Plunkett Centre for Health Ethics, the Faculty of Health Sciences at ACU, and the St Vincent’s Health Australia Network.
According to Professor Lazenby, the dean of the University of California’s Sue and Bill Gross School of Nursing, nurses can learn from the concept of rational compassion to balance the ultimate paradox of their profession – caring deeply for patients without succumbing to emotional exhaustion.
“Rational compassion treads a middle path,” Professor Lazenby said.
“Rather than being a form of cold detachment, it invites us to engage wholeheartedly with patients’ needs, while guarding against the emotional overload that can lead to burnout or moral injury.”
Similar to self-compassion, another popular concept in psychology, rational compassion can help nursing become a more sustainable, purposeful, and ultimately, fulfilling vocation.
Director of the Plunkett Centre for Health Ethics, Xavier Symons, said the centre was pleased to host Professor Lazenby.
“Professor Mark Lazenby’s unique philosophical approach to nursing care offers a valuable and sustainable model for workers struggling to feel fulfilled in their professional lives,” Dr Symons said,.
“The Plunkett Centre for Health Ethics looks forward to welcoming Professor Lazenby for what will be an enlightening and honest look at nursing as a caring profession.”
Details: Plunkett Centre for Health Ethics website.
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Webinar to offer sustainable strategies for guarding against nurse burnout (ACU)
