Fatigue among anaesthesiologists in Europe : findings from a joint EBA/NASC survey

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Anaesthesiologists deliver an increasing amount of patient care and often work long hours in operating theatres and intensive care units, with frequent on-calls and insufficient rest in between. In the long term, this will negatively influence mental and physical health and well being. As fatigue becomes more prevalent, this has predictable implications for patient safety and clinical effectiveness.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, severity, causes and implications of work-related fatigue amongst specialist anaesthesiologists.

DESIGN: An online survey of specialist anaesthesiologists.

PARTICIPANTS: The survey was sent to anaesthesiologists in 42 European countries by electronic mail.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Responses from a 36-item online survey assessed work-related fatigue and its impact on anaesthesiologists in European countries.

RESULTS: Work-related fatigue was experienced in 91.6% of the 1508 respondents from 32 European countries. Fatigue was caused by their working patterns, clinical and nonclinical workloads, staffing issues and excessive work hours. Over 70% reported that work-related fatigue negatively impacted on their physical and mental health, emotional well being and safe commuting. Most respondents did not feel supported by their organisation to maintain good health and well being.

CONCLUSION: Work-related fatigue is a significant and widespread problem amongst anaesthesiologists. More education and increased awareness of fatigue and its adverse effects on patient safety, staff well being and physical and mental health are needed. Departments should ensure that their rotas and job plans comply with the European Working Time Directive (EWTD) and introduce a fatigue risk management system to mitigate the effects of fatigue.