Paramedics are one of the professions where the risk of exposure to stress is high as well as the risk of occurrence of the burnout syndrome. The aim of the study was to analyze methods of stress reduction and symptoms of the burnout syndrome among 122 paramedics from Kraków and surrounding area. The most prevalent symptom was severe tiredness after working hours. The majority of respondents (64%) confirmed using 44 constructive methods of stress reduction, however potentially dangerous use of alcohol, cigarettes was also observed especially in difficult situations. The results showed that in the research group the occurrence of alarming symptoms of the burnout syndrome was numerous. Therefore there is a need to define and implement appropriate activities aiming at stress reduction training - like debriefing, training on resilience or support of physical activity. It is highly important since the outcomes of burnout will affect not only paramedics themselves, but also their employers and patients.
