Los factores asociados al desgaste en cuidadores formales en el Ecuador, durante el año 2024

Abstract

Abstract: This study aimed to identify factors associated with emotional exhaustion in formal caregivers working in public and private institutions in the province of Napo during 2024. A quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional, and descriptive methodology was used. The sample consisted of 35 professional caregivers in direct care roles. Validated instruments were applied, including the Zarit Burden Interview, the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12), the Empathy Distress Scale (IDE), and the ProQOL-V Scale, which assesses professional quality of life. Results showed that while most caregivers did not report significant overload, high levels of empathy fatigue and moderate emotional vulnerability were observed. Additionally, elevated levels of depersonalization and low personal accomplishment dimensions associated with burnout were identified, although the syndrome did not reach critical levels. The ProQOL-V scale reflected low compassion satisfaction and high emotional strain, and the GHQ-12 indicated moderate mental health deterioration with signs of psychological vulnerability. These findings highlight the need for institutional strategies to provide psychosocial support and prevent emotional burnout in this occupational group.