Burnout Syndrome during Pediatric Residency Training

Mohammed M Jan,Fadi M Jan

doi:10.4236/ojped.2015.53033

Abstract

Background: Burnout syndrome is a common professional problem causing mental fatigue, depersonalization, and diminished self-value. Burnout during pediatric residency can significantly influence the resident’s performance and the quality of their training. Objectives: To evaluate the burnout status of pediatric residents across Jeddah, KSA. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study involving pediatric residents across Jeddah, Saudi Arabia was conducted from the 1 st of August to 1 st of December, 2012. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was utilized in addition to questions about their work environment and lifestyle. Results: Sixty pediatric residents (67% females) were included with ages ranging between 25 - 30 years (mean 26.5). They practiced in various institutions, mostly (41%) in ministry of health hospitals. Burnout scores were abnormal in 49 (82%) and in 19 (32%) the syndrome was severe. Males were more likely to reach a severe burnout category when compared to females (32% vs 19%, p = 0.01). Residents working in the university hospital (23%), were more likely to have severe burnout when compared to those working in other hospitals (p = 0.002). Junior residents (R1 and R2) were also more likely to have severe burnout when compared to senior residents (34% vs 21%, p = 0.013). Conclusions: Many pediatric residents are suffering from burnout syndrome. It is more common among males, junior residents, and those working in a university hospital setting. Specific strategies should be developed to prevent resident burnout.

Highlights

Burnout syndrome is a common problem affecting health care workers and causing mental fatigue, depersonali-How to cite this paper: Jan, F.M. and Jan, M.M. (2015) Burnout Syndrome during Pediatric Residency Training
Seventy two questionnaires were distributed and 60 (83%) were returned. Of these 60 pediatric residents, 67% were females with ages ranging between 25 - 30 years
Residents working in the university hospital (23%), were more likely to have severe burnout when compared to those working in other hospitals (p = 0.002)

Summary

Introduction

Burnout syndrome is a common problem affecting health care workers and causing mental fatigue, depersonali-How to cite this paper: Jan, F.M. and Jan, M.M. (2015) Burnout Syndrome during Pediatric Residency Training. Burnout syndrome is more prevalent in stressful environments that are physically demanding or requiring higher levels of commitments, such as pediatric residency programs [6] During such training, the resident is expected to have frequent in-house calls, participate in invasive procedures, and look after patients requiring intensive or emergent care [7]. Lack of sleep and fatigue because of frequent and busy in-house calls was perceived by many residents to have a major impact on their personal lives and their ability to perform their work [11] All these factors contribute to burnout, which in turn affects the resident’s performance and the quality of their training. Conclusions: Many pediatric residents are suffering from burnout syndrome It is more common among males, junior residents, and those working in a university hospital setting.

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