Characteristic signs and symptoms of the Burnout syndrome experienced by undergraduate nursing students

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the frequency with which the characteristic signs and symptoms of the Burnout syndrome are experienced by undergraduate nursing students. Method: This is a quantitative study, conducted with 168 students, through the application of a scale of signs and symptoms of the Burnout syndrome for students, which was constructed and validated in this research. We have used descriptive and variance analysis for performing the data analysis. Results: We have verified that the Behavioral Changes were experienced by students with an average frequency, whilst signs and symptoms of Physical Wear, Distancing and disbelief in relation to studies and Feelings of Powerlessness were experienced with a lower frequency. Students of more advanced grades experienced Behavioral Changes with a higher frequency. Moreover, students who did not opt for the Nursing as their course of first choice showed signs and symptoms of Physical Wear with a higher frequency. Conclusion: It becomes necessary to help students in the process of coping with situations that seem to lead them to experience signs and symptoms of the Burnout syndrome, thereby allowing the exercise of their own care, before assuming, professionally, the assignments of the care of their fellow men. Descriptors: Nursing Students; Professional Depletion; Nursing Education