A Qualitative Analysis of Student and Preceptor Resiliency Discussions During Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences

Abstract

ObjectiveThe primary objective of this qualitative study was to describe key themes discussed by student pharmacists and preceptors related to recognizing burnout and maintaining wellbeing during an experiential assignment. MethodsThis qualitative study used directed content analysis to examine themes that emerged from discussions between student pharmacists and preceptors as part of a required lifelong learning interview during Introductory Pharmacy Practice Experiences that took place between August 2019 and May 2020. Iterative axial coding was used to develop and redefine codes systematically until consensus was reached and a final codebook was established. All responses were coded using the consensus categories. ResultsFrom the 228 interviews analyzed, 3 overarching themes emerged: causes of burnout, manifestations or symptoms of burnout, and strategies to manage stress and burnout. Preceptors identified the mechanics of the job and feeling extreme pressure or worry as 2 major causes of burnout, which manifest as physical exhaustion, mental exhaustion, and poor work performance. To manage stress, preceptors reported using personal and work-positive coping strategies. ConclusionThe major themes derived from the analysis—causes of burnout, manifestations of burnout, and strategies to manage stress—align with what is already known about health care provider wellbeing. Although it remains unknown if this type of wellness intervention is effective at changing student stress management habits, results indicate that the intervention sparked conversations that could assist students in establishing a baseline of knowledge on the topic and supply students with a toolkit of resiliency strategies.