Factores asociados al desgaste en cuidadores formales en los sectores público y privado de los Cantones de Pastaza y Mera de la Provincia de Pastaza, durante el año 2024

Abstract

Abstract: The present analysis aimed to identify the factors associated with caregiver burnout among formal caregivers in the city of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas during the year 2024. A quantitative approach was employed, with a non-experimental, descriptive, and cross-sectional design. The sample consisted of 43 healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, nursing assistants, psychologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. Five standardized instruments were used: the Zarit Burden Interview, the GHQ-12, the ProQOL-V, the Empathy Fatigue Inventory (IDE), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). Findings revealed that 25.1% of participants experienced a significant level of caregiver burden. Additionally, over 85% reported moderate to high levels of compassion fatigue, along with symptoms associated with burnout syndrome, particularly in the areas of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization. In summary, the results showed that although not all caregivers presented high levels of distress, a significant portion displayed warning signs that require timely attention. Ignoring this smaller yet vulnerable group could endanger both the well-being of the caregiver and the quality of care provided to patients.