The Impact of Positive Reinforcement on Teamwork Climate, Resiliency, and Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The TEAM-ICU (Transforming Employee Attitudes via Messaging Strengthens Interconnection, Communication, and Unity) Pilot Study

Green, Jack; Berdahl, Carl T; Ye, Xin; Wertheimer, Jeffrey C

The Impact of Positive Reinforcement on Teamwork Climate, Resiliency, and Burnout During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The TEAM-ICU (Transforming Employee Attitudes via Messaging Strengthens Interconnection, Communication, and Unity) Pilot Study

Green, Jack; Berdahl, Carl T; Ye, Xin; Wertheimer, Jeffrey C

Abstract

Burnout is an internationally recognized occupational phenomenon that negatively impacts the healthcare workforce and its recipients. The aim of this pilot study was to test whether positive reinforcement and integrating a language of support among co-workers can enhance resiliency, facilitate psychological wellness, and encourage hope. This embedded mixed methods prospective, behavioral, interventional study evaluated the effects of positive feedback on wellness among intensive care unit clinicians during the COVID-19 pandemic in a single center, quaternary care medical center. The deliberate positive feedback paradigm has the potential to augment resiliency and improve attitudes toward a teamwork climate. The routine use of deliberate positivity may represent a scalable, low-cost initiative to enhance wellness in a healthcare organization.

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Journal of Health Psychology
2023
Profession(s)
Physicians
Nurses
Physical, Occupational, Other Therapists
Topic(s)
Burnout
Resource Types
Peer-Reviewed Research
Study Type(s)
Mixed Methods Study
Action Strategy Area(s)
Worker & Learner Engagement
Physical & Mental Health
Setting(s)
Hospital
Academic Role(s)
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