Burnout Syndrome Among Workers at a Health Center in the City of Ambato

Abstract

Justification: burnout syndrome is a psychosocial phenomenon that affects emotional health and work performance, particularly in high-demand settings such as the healthcare sector. Objective: this study aimed to describe the levels of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and personal accomplishment among the staff of a healthcare facility in Ambato, and to compare these dimensions according to the area of work. Methodology: a quantitative approach with a descriptive-comparative design and proportional stratified sampling was applied. The sample included 280 voluntary workers from different areas: physicians, nurses, administrative staff, students, and support personnel. The Maslach Burnout Inventory – Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS) was used, showing adequate reliability for all three subscales. Results: results indicated that, overall, staff exhibited moderate levels of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, and intermediate levels of personal accomplishment. Comparative analysis revealed that administrative staff and students were the most vulnerable groups, showing higher emotional exhaustion and depersonalization than nurses and support personnel, while personal accomplishment remained relatively stable across work areas. Conclusion: the study provides evidence to guide the design of targeted interventions for emotional support and stress management, particularly for the most exposed groups, promoting occupational health and overall well-being within the institution.