Digital Stress and Burnout Among Nurse Leaders

Objective: To determine the prevalence of digital stress and burnout in acute-care hospital nurse leaders and to examine their relationship. Background: Nurse leaders face increasing digital demands. However, no literature explores the prevalence of digital stress or its impact on burnout. Methods: A descriptive, correlational survey study of 145 nurse leaders from a single healthcare system using demographic questions, the Digital Stressors Scale, and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. Results: Moderate digital stress was reported, particularly related to conflict ( M = 22.92, SD = 7.71) and social environment ( M = 22.78, SD = 6.22). Burnout was highest on the Work Burnout subscale ( M = 309.46, SD = 110.93). Higher digital stress, especially from conflict and social demands, was associated with increased burnout across all domains of the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory. Conclusions: Digital stress significantly contributes to burnout among nurse leaders. Health systems should implement strategies to mitigate technology-related stress.