Exhaustion syndrome in palliative care

Abstract

Exhaustion syndrome is a potential risk for palliative-care workers and families because of their special contact with suffering. In this article we review its manifestations, the ways it affects every member of the team and other carers. It is possible to prevent it through an early recognition of job stress and the developing of strategies of self-control. It can be treated by improving the relationships among the different members of the team and families, by administrative measures to provide support when difficult matters have to be addressed, by creating support teams and by providing a stimulus for improving the quality of work.