What action should a nurse take first when noticing signs of burnout in a colleague?

When a nurse notices signs of burnout in a colleague, the most appropriate initial action is to discuss the observations directly with the colleague. Engaging in a conversation allows the nurse to express concern and provide support in a compassionate manner. This approach creates an open line of communication, enabling the colleague to share their feelings and experiences regarding their work situation. It also respects the colleague's autonomy and encourages them to acknowledge their stressors, which is essential for addressing burnout effectively. Having this direct dialogue can lead to finding solutions or support systems that may be beneficial for the colleague.

In contrast, reporting the colleague to management could lead to feelings of betrayal or increased stress, while encouraging a break might not address the underlying issues contributing to burnout. Asking other staff about the colleague’s performance could spread concern or gossip and is not a constructive or supportive approach.