Burn Out Syndrom In Turkish Emergency Physicians

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study is to evaluate the burnout levels of physicians who work at emergency departments and to determine factors effecting those levels.
METHODS: This study has been carried out at health care settings of the state within the city borders, which provide emergency care service for 24 hours aday. After giving informed consent, physicians have filled out sociodemographic data form and burnout scale form.
RESULTS: Ninety one general practitioners working at nineteen health care departments (eleven state hospitals, seven health offices, one SSK hospital) have been included in the study. Burnout levels have been found to be affected directly by the setting. Physicians, working at SSK hospital emergency rooms have had a higher emotional burnout and insensibility score (p < 0.05), but lower personal success score (p < 0.001). Physicians who maintain their social activities and hobbies had significant1y lower burnout scores (p < 0.001).
CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that social activities and hobbies prevent physicians from burnout syndrome. It has been showed that doctors working at SSK emergency departments are under higher risk than their colleagues. Reducing monthly working hour and informing physicians about the syndrome may lower this risk.