In his wellness column this month, community pharmacist and positive psychology practitioner Séamus Ruane, looks at burnout and how we can prevent it when working in busy and often stressful environments.
Community pharmacy plays a key role in the Irish healthcare system, providing essential services ranging from dispensing medications and providing professional healthcare advice, to vaccination services and bridging the gap with other healthcare providers. The public have unrivalled instant access to their local pharmacist making them one of the most trusted professions in repeated surveys. However, the increasing demands placed on pharmacy teams, from excessive administration, and increased complexity of roles, to staff shortages in a full employment economy, can leave many more prone to increased stress and burnout.
Burnout can be defined as a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged periods of stress. Preventing burnout is crucial not only for the wellbeing of staff but also for ensuring the continued effective operation of the pharmacy itself. Time and time again research confirms that a team who experiences high levels of wellbeing provide higher levels of patient care, greater customer satisfaction, and are more engaged with their work. So how can we prevent burnout in a busy pharmacy environment, and what steps can we focus on to create an enjoyable, sustainable, and supportive workplace environment?
Burnout in pharmacy staff can present in several ways, including chronic tiredness and fatigue, decreased job satisfaction, reduced performance, and emotional detachment. The high workload, fast pace, constant patient interaction, and the significant responsibility of ensuring medication safety all contribute to high stress levels. Recognising the signs of burnout early is essential to addressing it effectively.
One of the main causes of burnout is an overwhelming workload. Effective workforce management can reduce this by ensuring that staffing levels are sufficient to meet the demands of the pharmacy. This involves not only hiring enough staff but also scheduling shifts in a way that balances the workload evenly. Technology can help in this regard by identifying busy days, times, and weekly or monthly patterns. Rotating roles and responsibilities and providing sufficient breaks during shifts can help prevent exhaustion and maintain a high level of job satisfaction.
A supportive environment is one of the main determinants of employee satisfaction. This includes promoting a culture of open communication where staff feel comfortable discussing their workload and any issues they are facing. Regular team meetings, which can be as simple as a brief morning ‘huddle’ provide opportunities for this to occur, allowing staff to express concerns and suggest improvements. Additionally, creating a physically comfortable workspace with adequate resources such as appropriate work stations, seating, staff canteen and ergonomic equipment can reduce physical strain and improve overall wellbeing.
Investing in professional development can help staff feel valued and engaged in their work. This can include access to training programs such as those provided by the IPU Professional Academy, attending conferences, or providing opportunities for career advancement within the pharmacy. Continuous learning keeps staff motivated and helps them stay updated with the latest practices and technologies in pharmacy, which can, in turn, make their job easier and more interesting.
Stress management programs can be highly effective in preventing burnout. They can include workshops on stress management techniques, mindfulness training, or providing access to counselling services. Encouraging staff to take regular breaks and promoting activities that reduce stress, such as exercise or meditation, can also make a significant difference. Some pharmacies may consider introducing comprehensive wellbeing programs that provide staff with resources and tools to manage stress effectively.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is vital in preventing burnout. This involves respecting staff’s time off and ensuring they do not feel obliged to work outside of their scheduled hours. Encouraging staff to take their full entitlement of annual leave and providing flexible working arrangements where possible can help them recharge and return to work refreshed. This not only benefits the individual but also improves overall productivity and job satisfaction.
Technology can play a significant role in reducing and optimising workloads. Implementing appropriate systems can streamline many routine tasks such as prescription ordering and processing, stock management, and patient record keeping. Automation of these tasks reduces the manual workload, allowing staff to focus on more critical areas of patient care and reduces the risk of errors. Also, using communication tools can improve coordination among staff and ensure that tasks are managed efficiently.
A strong sense of teamwork and collaboration can reduce the individual burden by promoting a sense of shared responsibility. Encouraging a team-based approach where responsibilities are shared, and staff support each other can create a more efficient and resilient work environment. Teambuilding activities, whether through formal exercises or informal social events, can strengthen relationships among staff and build a supportive network that helps individuals cope with stress.
Recognition and rewards can significantly boost morale and promote staff motivation and engagement. Acknowledging the hard work and dedication of pharmacy staff through formal awards, verbal praise, or small incentives can make them feel valued and appreciated. This positive reinforcement encourages continued high performance and promotes a culture of mutual respect and appreciation within the pharmacy.
Preventing burnout in a busy pharmacy environment requires a multipronged approach that addresses the various sources of stress and supports the wellbeing of staff. The effort required is rewarded by ensuring that pharmacy staff remain engaged, motivated, and capable of providing the highest level of patient care. Prioritising the wellbeing of pharmacy teams is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic investment in the long-term success and resilience of the pharmacy.
Séamus Ruane is a community pharmacist and Positive Psychology Practitioner. Visit www.iThrive.ie for more information.
Séamus Ruane
Community Pharmacist and Positive Psychology Practitioner
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