Alarm Fatigue and Moral Distress Among Critical Care Nurses a Concept Paper

Alarm fatigue and moral distress are significant challenges for ICU nurses, affecting their well-being, performance, and patient safety. Alarm fatigue results from frequent false or non-actionable alarms, leading to desensitization, delayed responses, and increased stress, while moral distress arises when systemic or situational constraints prevent nurses from acting according to their ethical values, causing frustration, emotional exhaustion, and burnout. This study explores these issues among Malaysian ICU nurses, focusing on the unique challenges posed by resource limitations, cultural diversity, and organizational factors. Findings reveal that alarm fatigue compromises efficiency and patient outcomes, while moral distress undermines emotional resilience and job satisfaction. To address these issues, the study proposes interventions such as optimizing alarm systems with advanced technologies, refining alarm thresholds, and training nurses in alarm management. Additionally, it highlights the importance of psychological support, ethical decision-making frameworks, and collaborative environments to alleviate moral distress and promote resilience. By implementing these strategies, healthcare institutions can create supportive ICU settings that enhance nurse well-being, reduce burnout, and improve patient care, contributing to sustainable improvements in the broader healthcare system.