Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine (Oct 2018)

Variability of Burnout and Stress Measures in Pediatric Residents: An Exploratory Single-Center Study From the Pediatric Resident Burnout–Resilience Study Consortium

  • Suzanne Reed MD,
  • Kathi J. Kemper MD, MPH,
  • Alan Schwartz PhD,
  • Maneesh Batra MD,
  • Betty B. Staples MD,
  • Janet R. Serwint MD,
  • Hilary McClafferty MD,
  • Charles J. Schubert MD,
  • Paria M. Wilson MD, MEd,
  • Alex Rakowsky MD,
  • Margaret Chase MD,
  • John D. Mahan MD

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/2515690X18804779
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 23

Abstract

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Residency is a high-risk period for physician burnout. We aimed to determine the short-term stability of factors associated with burnout, application of these data to previous conceptual models, and the relationship of these factors over 3 months. Physician wellness questionnaire results were analyzed at 2 time points 3 months apart. Associations among variables within and across time points were analyzed. Logistic regression was used to predict burnout and compassionate care. A total of 74% of residents completed surveys. Over 3 months, burnout ( P = .005) and empathy ( P = .04) worsened. The most significant cross-sectional relationship was between stress and emotional exhaustion (time 1 r = 0.61, time 2 r = 0.68). Resilience was predictive of increased compassionate care and decreased burnout ( P < .05). Mindfulness was predictive of decreased burnout ( P < .05). Mitigating stress and fostering mindfulness and resilience longitudinally may be key areas of focus for improved wellness in pediatric residents. Larger studies are needed to better develop targeted wellness interventions.