Research Journal of Medical Sciences
ISSN: Online 1993-6095ISSN: Print 1815-9346
Abstract
Although, a certain level of stress can enhance the process of learning and task execution, an overwhelming amount of stress experienced by surgeons could result in unfavorable patient results. Excessive stress is considered a contributing factor to surgeon burnout and the potential for self‐harm, which may manifest through behaviors such as substance misuse and suicide. Before each surgical procedure, every surgeon was queried about the stress factors they were encountering. Two interns, separately, observed a total of 15 surgeries each, diligently documenting their observations throughout the entire surgical process. During each operation, these interns recorded in real‐time any activities or events that induced anxiety using a checklist containing eight potential stressors. These stressors included technical challenges, patient issues, teamwork difficulties, time and management concerns, distractions and interruptions, equipment malfunctions, personal matters and teachingrelated stressors. In the course of observing 25 operations, a collective count of 78 stress‐inducing factors was recorded, equating to an average of approximately 3.12 stressors per operation. Surgeons ranked personal issues as their primary stressors, followed by team‐related, technical and equipment problems. In contrast, interns believed that technical problems were the leading cause of stress for surgeons, followed by equipment issues, team dynamics and distractions/interruptions. Observers perceived personal and patient‐related concerns as relatively minor sources of distraction, while these factors triggered significant stress levels among the surgeons. The study found that team‐building activities, training and regular equipment checks can help to improve teamwork and skills and reduce technical issues. Team‐building activities can help surgeons and other surgical team members to work better together. Training and symposia can help surgeons and other surgical team members to improve their skills. Regular equipment checks can help to identify and fix potential problems with equipment. Finally, the study recommends establishing stringent guidelines and protocols to mitigate distractions and interruptions.
How to cite this article:
Subhasini Rathod, S. Pallavi and B. Jhansi Lakshmi. A Prospective Study on Stress Taken by Surgeon While Operating Cases.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.59218/makrjms.2023.1064.1069
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.59218/makrjms.2023.1064.1069