The Efficacy of Resilience Training Interventions in Mitigating Burnout among Nursing Staff: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Background: Burnout is a major occupational problem among nurses, characterised by emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation, and reduced personal accomplishment, with negative consequences for both healthcare workers and patient care. Aims: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of resilience-training interventions in reducing burnout among nursing staff. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methodology: A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies involving registered nurses in clinical settings that reported sufficient data to estimate effect sizes. The risk of bias was assessed using the RoB 2 and JBI tools. Data were pooled using a random-effects meta-analysis. Results: Eight studies (496 nurses) met the inclusion criteria. Resilience training significantly reduced total burnout (mean difference = −6.53, 95% CI: −11.43 to −1.64, P=.008) with substantial heterogeneity (I² = 69.2%). Emotional exhaustion also significantly improved (standardised mean difference = −0.48, 95% CI: −0.73 to −0.24, P=.001) with low heterogeneity (I² = 20.7%). Effects on depersonalisation (SMD = −0.17, 95% CI: −0.63 to 0.30, P=.47) and personal accomplishment (SMD = −0.08, 95% CI: −0.61 to 0.46, P=.77) were not statistically significant, with high heterogeneity (I² = 78.6% and 82.1%, respectively). Egger’s test showed no publication bias (P=.13). Conclusion: Resilience training effectively reduces total burnout and emotional exhaustion among nursing staff but does not significantly improve depersonalisation or personal accomplishment. Healthcare administrators should consider integrating these interventions into workplace wellness initiatives, particularly for nurses in high-acuity settings.