Occupational stress in health personnel working in hard-to-reach áreas in Ecuador: identificación of risk factors

Abstract

This research addresses occupational stress affecting health personnel in hard-to-reach areas of Ecuador, with the objective of understanding the factors that generate it and its impact on the physical and emotional wellbeing of workers. To this end, a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was used, including a review of recent literature, analysis of experiences and surveys of professionals in the sector. Among the factors identified were the psychosocial burden, working in isolation, lack of adequate infrastructure and lack of training. These conditions not only affect the physical and mental health of workers, but also the quality of care they can offer their patients. The consequences include emotional exhaustion, lack of motivation and a deterioration in general health. The research highlights the importance of implementing measures to improve the work environment, such as ensuring adequate resources, fostering social support and offering training programs. These actions would not only protect the health of workers, but would also strengthen the quality of the service they provide to the most vulnerable communities.