Episode 55: Running on Empty: Preventing NICU Nurse Burnout

September 21, 2026

Guest: Tori Meskin, MSN, RNC-NIC

NICU Nurse

In this episode:

  • Identify primary drivers of burnout specific to NICU nursing.
  • Differentiate between compassion fatigue, secondary traumatic stress, and moral distress.
  • Describe practical boundary-setting strategies in high-acuity environments.
  • Recognize the role of mentorship and peer networks in nurse retention.
  • Develop at least one actionable strategy to improve personal or unit-level well-being.

About Nurse Tori

nurse tori meskin, hand to hold NICU Heroes, nurse burnoutNurse Tori is Tori Meskin MSN RNC-NIC, a NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) nurse, content creator, and co-founder of NICUity. She holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Nursing and Child Development from the University of Arizona and a Master’s in Nursing Leadership. Meskin has extensive experience in specialized neonatal and pediatric critical care, having worked in various children’s hospitals, university hospitals, and trauma centers since 2013. She is known for sharing real-life insights into NICU nursing, career growth, and lifestyle balance through her blog, social media, and other platforms, aiming to support and empower other nurses. 

Connect with Nurse Tori

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Disclosures

This podcast episode is approved by the California Board of Registered Nurses, Provider Number 15417, for up to 1 contact hour.