Síndrome de Burnout entre profissionais da enfermagem na pandemia da Covid-19 (2020/2023)

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: This study addressed the concept of work, its historical evolution, and the impact on the mental health of nursing professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2023). The contributions of Marx, Engels, and Foucault were explored, which relate work to human identity, social relations, and power dynamics. Nursing, characterized by intense emotional load, high responsibility, and direct contact with patients, faced amplified challenges during the pandemic, such as physical and emotional overload, which favored the development of Burnout Syndrome (BS), defined by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low personal accomplishment. OBJECTIVE: To understand the factors that triggered Burnout in nursing professionals during this period, analyze its evolution in health literature, and conduct an integrative review, with a view to contributing to better working conditions and support for mental health, highlighting the existing gap in public policies directed at these workers. METHODOLOGY AND STUDY PRODUCTION: The research resulted in three scientific articles: two based on literature reviews and one on an integrative literature review (ILR). Searches were conducted in databases such as SciELO, Lilacs, CAPES Periodicals, PubMed, and Google Scholar, using DeCS descriptors: “Burnout”, “Pandemic” and “Nursing”, as well as combinations like “Burnout AND Pandemic” and “Burnout AND Nursing”. For articles 1 and 2, texts in Portuguese available on academic platforms were included, excluding duplicates and monographs. For article 3, only studies from 2020-2023, in Portuguese and available in full, were selected, excluding duplicates, monographs, dissertations, theses, integrative reviews, and those off-topic. As it is a bibliographic study, there was no need for submission to the ethics committee, complying with the resolutions of the National Health Council (CNS 466/2012 and 510/2016). RESULTS: Article 1 - "Covid-19 in Brazil and the Mental Health of Nursing Professionals": Qualitative literature review on the impacts of the pandemic on nurses' mental health, focusing on Burnout symptoms and work stressors. The central role of these professionals in the response to the health crisis and the severe emotional impact suffered were highlighted, with chronic stress, fear of infection, and lack of institutional support identified as triggers of Burnout. Organizational interventions were suggested, such as mental health support programs and workload management. Article 2 - "Approach to Burnout Syndrome: A Literature Review": Explored general aspects of the syndrome and its relation to technological changes and demands of capitalism. It emphasized that modern work environments intensify Burnout, especially in nursing. It pointed out as mitigating strategies the promotion of healthier work environments, clear definition of roles, and psychological support, advocating for systemic changes that prioritize workers' mental health. Article 3 - "Stress Factors Associated with Burnout Syndrome in Nursing Professionals During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Literature Review": Analyzed studies from 2020–2023, following systematic steps proposed by Mendes et al. (2008) and Cavalcante & Oliveira (2020). Factors such as exhausting shifts, low remuneration, scarcity of resources, and the high emotional load of patient care were identified. Burnout was associated with a decline in care quality, increased absenteeism, and harm to nurses' personal health. As interventions, the strengthening of teams, expansion of mental health support, and reforms in public policies were highlighted. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE STUDY: It is concluded that Burnout Syndrome configured itself as a serious public health problem among nursing professionals during the pandemic, driven by work overload, insufficient resources, and emotional exhaustion. The three articles evidenced the interaction between working conditions, social expectations, and mental health, reinforcing the importance of broad strategies, such as institutional support, mental health programs, and changes in public policies. The research underscores the essential role of nursing and the need for new investigations that support evidence-based interventions, aiming at improving quality of life and professional well-being, especially in crisis contexts like pandemics. Keywords: Burnout Syndrome. Nursing. Covid-19 Pandemic. Worker Health.