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Indoor Plants, Burnout Mitigation and the Wellness of Healthcare Workers

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Abstract

Previous research has found that indoor plants may improve aspects of occupational wellness in office workers. Healthcare workers, particularly those working in primary care settings, report high rates of burnout. However, limited evidence exists regarding the effect of indoor plants on healthcare worker wellness or burnout. In this mixed-methods, randomized control pilot study, four primary care clinics were studied to evaluate the impact of indoor plants on burnout rates. Potted foliage plants were placed in treatment clinics and remained for two months. Surveys were administered to evaluate rates of burnout and nature connectedness of workers in treatment and control groups before, during, and at the end of the treatment period. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted to elucidate participant perceptions of the role of indoor plants and nature exposure in occupational wellness. Quantitative data showed trends toward reduced burnout over time in the treatment group, particularly among providers and those with low nature relatedness. Interviews found that participants associated indoor plants and outdoor nature exposure with wellness indicators and burnout modifiers, including enhanced mood and physical wellbeing, cognitive restoration, mindfulness, and cohesive workspaces. The addition of indoor plants appeared to enhance workplace wellness and possibly reduce burnout among medical professionals in this study. Healthcare organizations should consider the use of indoor plants as valuable additions to the built environment of outpatient healthcare facilities to improve occupational wellness and reduce burnout among employees.

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Description

63 pages

Supplemental file(s) description: Survey and interview guide content.

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Date Issued

2023-08

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Keywords

Burnout; Environmental psychology; Indoor plants; Occupational wellness; Primary care

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Committee Chair

Rakow, Donald

Committee Co-Chair

Committee Member

Loebach, Janet

Degree Discipline

Horticulture

Degree Name

M.S., Horticulture

Degree Level

Master of Science

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Government Document

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dissertation or thesis

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