As the demand for caregivers continues to rise, maintaining a delicate balance between compassion and professional detachment becomes increasingly crucial. Dr. Phyllis Quinlan, a seasoned registered nurse and certified professional coach, delves into this intricate dance. With over four decades of experience in nursing and a focus on coaching caregivers, Dr. Quinlan sheds light on the burnout epidemic plaguing caregivers and provides actionable insights on overcoming it.
The Journey of a Caregiver
Dr. Quinlan's journey began conventionally, as a career and life coach. However, a pivotal moment redirected her path. "One fine day, I got a phone call from a nurse who needed my help because she could only do nursing. But she no longer wanted to take care of patients," she recalls. This encounter marked her first experience with a client struggling with burnout, a term that has become increasingly common among caregivers today.
Understanding Burnout
Burnout, as Dr. Quinlan explains, is fundamentally a loss of connection to mission and purpose. For caregivers, this disconnection often stems from the clash between the business of healthcare and the practice of caregiving.
"They're looking to align the day-to-day business of operating a hospital with the mission and purpose of being a caregiver. And they will not align. One is a business, the other is a calling and a way of life," she asserts.
The pressures of understaffing, transactional leadership, and unhealthy work environments exacerbate this disconnection. The result is a workforce that feels undervalued and overworked, leading to the inevitable burnout.
Building Resilience and Well-Being
Dr. Quinlan emphasizes the importance of resilience and self-care for caregivers. "I work with people to develop and strengthen their sense of emotional intelligence and improve their sense of well-being," she says. This involves helping caregivers recognize the importance of self-compassion and the necessity of investing time in themselves.
For many caregivers, the idea of self-care is foreign, almost heretical. They see themselves solely as providers, equating the need for care with being less capable. Dr. Quinlan challenges this mindset, urging caregivers to embrace their humanity and acknowledge that self-care is not a sign of weakness but a source of strength.
Tackling Disruptive Behaviors
A significant part of Dr. Quinlan's work involves addressing disruptive behaviors in the workplace, such as chronic incivility and bullying. These behaviors can severely undermine team unity and contribute to an unhealthy work environment. Dr. Quinlan warns against tackling these issues alone, advocating for a coordinated effort involving executive leadership and human resources.
"Document, document, document," she advises. For bullies, who often display narcissistic tendencies, documentation is crucial. "You need to document every time there is an abusive incident, the education and training offered, and the discipline provided," she explains. This meticulous documentation builds a case for eventual dismissal if necessary, ensuring that the workplace remains a safe and supportive environment for all staff.
The Silver Lining of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic, despite its many challenges, has brought some positive changes. It has made it glaringly apparent that self-care is essential, even for caregivers. "People are actually making time unapologetically for mindfulness, physical exercise, or something that really gives them a much-needed break," Dr. Quinlan notes.
Creating a Healthy Work Environment
The ultimate goal for healthcare leaders in the 21st century, according to Dr. Quinlan, is to create and sustain the healthiest work environment possible. This involves addressing not only the structural aspects of healthcare but also the interpersonal dynamics that influence daily operations.
"Growing someone's emotional intelligence can be a remedy for chronic incivility," she says.
However, for true bullies, the solution often involves a more permanent exit from the organization. The key is understanding that a bully's behavior is unlikely to change because they do not perceive a need to change.
Key Takeaways
Dr. Quinlan's insights highlight the importance of maintaining a connection to mission and purpose, fostering resilience and well-being, and addressing disruptive behaviors in the workplace. Her message is clear: caregivers must prioritize self-care and leaders must create environments that support and value their staff.
For those struggling with burnout or facing challenges in their work environment, Dr. Quinlan offers her support. "Reach out to me at MFW Consultants or connect with me on LinkedIn. Let's work together to create a work environment that supports talent, civility, and helps you grow your organization to its limit."
Conclusion
In the demanding world of caregiving, maintaining compassion amidst burnout is a formidable challenge. However, with the right support, self-care, and a healthy work environment, caregivers can reconnect with their mission and continue to provide the compassionate care they are known for. Dr. Phyllis Quinlan's expertise and dedication offer a beacon of hope for those navigating this complex landscape.
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