Exploration of Lived Experiences and Measurement of Burnout Among US Clinical Research Nurses

Abstract

OBJECTIVE The aims of this study were to explore the experiences of US clinical research nurses supporting the conduct of clinical trials before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and assess dimensions of burnout among these nurses using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey. BACKGROUND Clinical research nurses are a subspecialty of nursing that supports clinical trial conduct. Postpandemic clinical research nurse well-being, including indicators of burnout, has not been established. METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study via online survey was conducted. RESULTS A sample of US clinical research nurses scored overall high for the Maslach category of Emotional Exhaustion, moderate for Depersonalization, and moderate for Personal Achievement. Themes included together or apart, rewarding but challenging, and surviving or thriving. CONCLUSION Supportive measures such as workplace appreciation and consistent change communication may benefit clinical research nurse well-being and reduce burnout during times of unpredicted crisis and beyond.