[Burn out syndrome among critical care workers]

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.