Relationship between mental fatigue and burnout syndrome in remote workers during the COVID-19 pandemic: an integrative review

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence available in the literature that addresses the relationship between mental fatigue and burnout syndrome associated with teleworking in times of the COVID-19 pandemic through an integrative review. Methods: This review included searching the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, Embase, Science Direct and SciELO. Using the DeCs and MeSH health sciences descriptors, the articles included were dated between March and December of 2021, during the pandemic. Of a total of 224 results, 215 articles were excluded, considering 9 for the preparation of this integrative review. Results: Mental fatigue was related to technostress, the presence of somatic symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia (p < 0.05), and loss of motivation (p < 0.05). Burnout was positively associated with overload, high interdependence, and less clarity of the worker's role. The presence of a stressful and protective factor in burnout was evidenced, such as intrusive leadership and workaholism, respectively. Greater exhaustion was observed in workers of generation X (41 to 55 years). Conclusions: It has been concluded that mental fatigue is related to exhaustion in the productive, physical and psychological dimensions of the subjects. Addiction to work has moderated this phenomenon, however, it is urgent to limit and optimize work hours as well as promote disconnection and rest in workers within the framework of a healthy work policy.