Burnout y seguridad del paciente.

Impacto crítico para la calidad asistencial.

Abstract

Burnout syndrome—characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment—represents a critical issue within healthcare systems and a major threat to patient safety. The WHO classifies burnout as an occupational risk arising from unmanaged chronic workplace stress, with direct consequences for clinical performance. Scientific evidence consistently demonstrates a strong association between burnout and increased clinical errors, adverse events, and diminished safety indicators. Meta-analyses and observational studies show that healthcare workers experiencing burnout have a higher likelihood of safety incidents, reduced job satisfaction, greater turnover, absenteeism, and decreased productivity. In nursing, the relationship is particularly robust, with higher rates of nosocomial infections, medication errors, patient falls, and lower perceived quality of care. Multiple mechanisms explain this link, including excessive workload, cognitive fatigue, impaired communication, and systemic organizational failures that heighten error vulnerability. Burnout operates through dynamic and multifactorial pathways, negatively influencing decision-making, concentration, and teamwork, while also positioning the clinician as a “second victim.” Evidence emphasizes that burnout must be addressed at an organizational—not solely individual—level. Implementing institutional policies that promote well-being, optimize working conditions, and strengthen safety culture is essential to improving care quality and reducing medical errors. Healthy clinicians lead to safer patients, reinforcing the need for structural interventions across healthcare settings.