Burnout syndrome and its link to emotional intelligence in nursing students

Abstract

Introduction: Burnout syndrome is a condition characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. It has emerged as a significant concern in the healthcare field, particularly among nursing students. Objective: To analyze the association between burnout syndrome and emotional intelligence in nursing students at a private university in Santiago, Chile, during the second semester of 2023. Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study that involves 268 nursing students from a Chilean university. Inclusion criteria consisted of being enrolled in the program, being between the first and eighth semester, and voluntary participation. Emotional intelligence was measured using the Trait Meta Mood Scale 24. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory Scale, adapted to Spanish, both validated for the population. Participants signed an informed consent, and confidentiality was ensured. Data were analyzed using Excel and SPSS with descriptive statistics. Results: 43.6 % of participants presented a moderate burnout level, 41 % showed a mild level, and the remaining 15.3 % experienced a severe degree of the syndrome. In the emotional attention subscale, most students indicated difficulty directing their attention toward their feelings, suggesting a lack of emotional awareness in the student population. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need to develop specific strategies to improve students' attention to, understanding of, and regulation of emotions as part of broader efforts to prevent and address burnout in educational settings.