Well, I don't read this article as nurses "needing recognition". In a workplace of stress, isolation except for orders, each nurse caring for her/his patients in a bubble, maybe a simple note from a coworker, or a supervisor that says, "Just a note to let you know how much I appreciate you bringing cookies yesterday. Just MADE MY DAY!" or "Thanks so much for your help with Mr. Smith. You really made a nasty task almost enjoyable." How about in the staff meeting, "Hey everybody, I just want to say how much it means to me that Joyce admitted a patient for me last week, while I was busy starting an IV. Joyce, you are my HERO!" All these situations probably already got a "Thanks!" but a note that affirms your REAL appreciation is very, very special. Last year I sent an actual BIRTHDAY CARD in the SNAIL MAIL to an old friend. She CALLED me on the PHONE (not a text) to say that nobody does that anymore, and how much she loved and appreciated me taking the time to do that. She will treasure it. I think the written word is powerful. In my opinion, all of these are NOT depending on the outside world for recognition. They are simply affirming that you appreciated someone. We ALL need that.

Same problem with other major issues, like veteran suicide. Basically the solution there is "identify and get help." Nobody tells you exactly WHERE to send the veteran for real help. Anyway, I believe burnout is the same problem. What works for one doesn't work for another. The only REAL solution for me was always change jobs, because the events/people/situations causing the burnout in the first place weren't going to change. A week off, or a cruise, or a hike doesn't solve the work problem. The same supervisor, or the same schedule, or the same procedures are still there when you get back all rested and ready to burn out again.

@Mary Alexander OMG!! That is a good topic. I think the nurses who do bully are ignorant that they are doing it, or just plain ol' don't care or even enjoy bulllying. Not sure what the person being bullied can actually DO about it. The times I've seen it most are when a new nurse is given a bully to be her/his mentor on the floor. Makes me sick.

Wine, music, hug my dog...

That is probably the dumbest thing I've ever heard. I wonder what ELSE they get points for, other than sleeping with the VP?