Síndrome de quemados: Cuidando a los cuidadores

Burnout: Caring for the Caregivers

Síndrome de quemados: Cuidando a los cuidadores

Richard T. Penson, Fiona L. Dignan, George P. Canellos, Carol L. Picard, Thomas J. Lynch, Jr.

The Kenneth B. Schwartz Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, Hematology-Oncology Department, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Richard T. Penson, MRCP, Instructor in Medicine, Hematology-Oncology, Cox 809, 100 Blossom Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114-2617, USA. Telephone: 617-726-5867; Fax: 617-724-3166; e-mail: rpenson@partners.org

Burnout describes the end result of stress in the professional life of a physician or caregiver and combines emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and low personal accomplishment. This problem is common in health care workers in every specialty and may affect not only personal satisfaction, but also the quality of care delivered to patients. Burnout is particularly relevant in oncology where caregivers work closely with patients who have life-threatening illnesses and therapy often has only a limited impact. Burnout was discussed in the rounds with an emphasis on factors which precipitate or prevent stress among health care workers. Presentations were made by Dr. Canellos of the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and Dr. Picard of the Institute for Health Professions. Staff discussed the main issues contributing to burnout including the health care system, lack of time and inadequate training. They considered preventative measures including psychological support of the health care team, communication and management skills, and effective coping mechanisms.            

Key Words. Burnout • Psychosocial • Stress • Training • Cost

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