Burnout syndrome in workers of a medium complexity public hospital

Abstract

This study was carried out with workers of a medium complexity Public Hospital and aims to identify signs and symptoms of Burnout syndrome and how it develops. One hundred and eighty-seven workers were interviewed using a semi structured questionnaire. Employees were sorted into two groups: a first group of professionals that work in direct patient care and a second group of professionals who do not work directly with patients. Data analysis pointed out that 9% of the sample presented Burnout syndrome and most of whom were working in direct patient care. 47% presented a high to moderate risk of developing the syndrome, which indicates an ongoing process. Although Burnout syndrome characteristically affects people who work in close contact with other people, this study shows that the syndrome affects almost all occupations. Tiredness, work overload and lack of rewards are some factors that contribute to the presentation of the syndrome and spoil the work of professionals whose labor result means care and other peoples' lives.