Workplace Stress Management in Nursing: Addressing Burnout Syndrome and Psychosocial Factors

Introduction: Job stress was identified by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) as a relevant public health problem due to its negative impact on workers' health and institutional performance. The prevalence of occupational stress is higher in developing countries, significantly affecting healthcare personnel, especially nurses, due to the nature of their work. Burnout Syndrome (BS) represents an extreme manifestation of chronic stress, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and a perception of low personal fulfillment. This phenomenon deteriorates the physical and mental health of workers and reduces the quality of services provided. Development: Job stress arises as a response to the lack of control and ability to cope with constant work demands. Among the associated psychosocial factors are work overload, conflictive relationships and lack of institutional support, accentuated by individual conditions such as gender and seniority. Karasek's Psychosocial Risk Model demonstrated that the balance between demands, control and social support is crucial to mitigate work stress. Modern institutions must address both structural and individual determinants to prevent SB and other harmful effects of stress. Conclusions: SB constitutes a critical problem in nursing, with implications for worker health and institutional efficiency. Primary, secondary and tertiary prevention strategies, together with the development of coping skills and the strengthening of institutional support, are essential. Comprehensive management of occupational stress not only improves the well-being of professionals, but also the quality and sustainability of the health care system