TITLE:
Burnout Syndrome during Pediatric Residency Training
AUTHORS:
Fadi M. Jan, Mohammed M. Jan
KEYWORDS:
Burnout Syndrome, Pediatrics, Residents, Training, Practice
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Pediatrics,
Vol.5 No.3,
August
31,
2015
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 1st of August to 1st 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.