BURNOUT IN HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS: ASSOCIATED FACTORS AND OCCUPATIONAL IMPACTS — A NARRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Burnout Syndrome is a condition of psychological exhaustion associated with prolonged exposure to chronic occupational stress. It is characterized by physical and emotional fatigue, reduced motivation, cognitive impairment, and progressive loss of professional satisfaction. Although it may affect different occupational groups, it has a particularly high prevalence among healthcare workers. Professionals in this field are routinely exposed to intense responsibilities, human suffering, long working hours, and frequent administrative pressures, all of which contribute to mental distress. In addition to compromising individual well-being, burnout may negatively affect the quality of healthcare delivery, increasing the risk of errors, iatrogenic events, and professional conflicts. Prevention strategies involve promoting professional autonomy, recognition, and more supportive and collaborative work environments. Less authoritarian management models, focused on emotional support, tend to favor greater psychological balance and occupational satisfaction. Therefore, the present article consists of a narrative review discussing the main factors associated with burnout among healthcare professionals, as well as possible institutional and behavioral strategies aimed at reducing its impacts and promoting better quality of work life.