title: [Burn out syndrome among critical care workers].
abstract: Burnout syndrome (BOS) is a psychological state resulting from prolonged exposure to job stressors. Because intensive care units (ICUs) are characterized by a high level of work-related stress, we reviewed the available literature on BOS among ICU-healthcare workers. Recent studies suggest that severe BOS (measured with the Maslach Burnout Inventory) is present in about half of all critical care physicians and one-third of critical care nurses. Interestingly, the determinants of BOS difer between the two groups of caregivers. Intensivists with severe BOS tend to be those with a large number of working hours (number of night shifts, and time since last vacation), whereas severe BOS among ICU nurses is mainly related to ICU organization and end-of-life care policy. ICU conflicts were independent predictors of severe BOS in both groups. Recent studies also identify potential preventive measures, such as ICU working groups, better communication during end-of-life care, and prevention and management of ICU conflicts.
authors.affiliation: Réanimation médicale, Hôpital Saint-Louis, Paris. jr.r.legall@club-internet.fr
authors.forename: Jean Roger
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Le Gall
authors.forename: Elie
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Azoulay
authors.forename: Nathalie
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Embriaco
authors.forename: Marie Cécile
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Poncet
authors.forename: Frédéric
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Pochard
mesh_terms: D002055:Burnout, Professional / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007362:Intensive Care Units; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D012307:Risk Factors