Date of Award

Summer 2026

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Nursing burnout has become an increasing concern due to heavy workloads, staffing shortages, and the inability of nurses to consistently take uninterrupted rest breaks during their shifts. Missed breaks contribute to fatigue, emotional exhaustion, decreased job satisfaction, and an increased risk of patient safety events. Evidence suggests that structured break interventions may improve opportunities for recovery during the workday.

Methods: A quality improvement (QI) project was conducted on a respiratory care unit at a midsized hospital in central New Hampshire using the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) framework. A microsystem assessment identified inconsistent break-taking as a significant gap. A five-question anonymous pre- and post-intervention survey was used to assess nurses’ break taking practices and perceived burnout before and after implementation of the intervention

Interventions: The intervention consisted of implementing a structured “break buddy” system in which nurses were paired with a designated colleague responsible for providing patient coverage during schedules 30-minute rest breaks. A brief “mini” report sheet accompanied the intervention to facilitate communication between partners. Educational posters, QR codes linking the surveys, and staff education sessions supported implementation.

Results: Implementation of the break buddy system improved nurses’ ability to take uninterrupted breaks and was well received by staff. While slightly limited, survey responses showed positive changed in break-taking practices and suggested improvements in perceived burnout and satisfaction with the intervention.

Conclusion: The break buddy system represented a practical, low-cost strategy for addressing barriers to uninterrupted rest breaks among inpatient nurses. By promoting peer accountability and structured break coverage, the intervention demonstrated the potential to improve nurse well-being while supporting a healthier work environment and patient safety. Future implementation across additional nursing units and evaluation over a longer period of time may further demonstrate the effectiveness and sustainability of this intervention.

Keywords: nursing burnout, rest breaks, break buddy, buddy system, nurse well-being, quality improvement, patient safety

Document Type

Master's Thesis

First Advisor

Deborah Simonton

College or School

CHHS

Department or Program

Department of Nursing

Degree Name

Other

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