Development and Evaluation of the Veterinary Nurse Burnout Prevention Survey (VNBPS)

Abstract

Burnout results from chronic workplace stress and is most effectively addressed through workplace interventions. Successful implementation of interventions may, however, be constrained by factors within the work environment. This study aimed to evaluate a new tool, the Veterinary Nurse Burnout Prevention Survey (VNBPS). The 35-item, cross-sectional mixed methods survey aimed to identify the presence of burnout risk factors for veterinary nurses (VNs), and support selection of tailored interventions within the clinic. The VNBPS was conducted within VN teams (N = 67) across six Australian veterinary clinics between August and September 2025. After delivery and analysis of the survey, a summary of results and tailored recommendations was provided to each clinic. A subsequent evaluation questionnaire measured perceived ease of participation, accuracy of findings, and practicality of recommendations. The majority of the 17 respondents who completed the evaluation questionnaire (71%, n = 10) found the survey very easy to complete, and the findings to be accurate (79%, n = 11), or very accurate (21%, n = 3). Recommended interventions were perceived to be practical (50%, n = 7) or very practical (29%, n = 4). Internal reliability of the VNBPS was good. Participants reported that the survey held additional value in initiating conversations about burnout. This confirms the VNBPS as a useful tool to assist veterinary workplaces in the prevention of VN burnout and provide practical support for leaders to improve the wellbeing and professional sustainability of VN teams.