LIFESTYLE, ANXIETY AND BURNOUT IN NURSES IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Introduction: Work is a significant determinant of health and is associated with specific forms of illness. In nursing, work is filled with challenges, particularly due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which has significantly impacted mental health. Objective: To assess the lifestyle, anxiety, and susceptibility to burnout syndrome among nurses who worked on the front lines during the Covid-19 pandemic. Method: Descriptive-analytical, quantitative, and cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic, anxiety, susceptibility to burnout syndrome, and lifestyle information were collected in August and September 2021. Results: It was found that nurses are vulnerable to burnout, with 19% and 81% presenting medium and high risk for this condition. Regarding anxiety, 56% reported mild anxiety, 25% moderate, and 19% severe. Lifestyle was found to be unsatisfactory, particularly in terms of physical activity, diet, self-image, finances, and restorative sleep. Network analysis revealed strong positive associations between lifestyle and emotional exhaustion (0.6), emotional exhaustion and cynicism (0.7), and a weak positive relationship between cynicism and work effectiveness (0.4). The workplace was negatively associated with work effectiveness (-0.5). It is noted that nurses are undergoing a process of mental illness, given the significant levels of anxiety, as well as emotionally exhausting themselves to maintain good work effectiveness. Lifestyle is affected by anxiety, burnout, and the workplace. Conclusion: It is suggested that health promotion actions be considered to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on the mental health of nursing professionals.