To evaluate burnout syndrome in higher medical staff, specifically physicians and clinical psychologists, in PICUs in Bulgaria.
Key Findings:
86% of surveyed doctors and clinical psychologists completed the survey (37 out of 43 doctors).
70.2% of respondents were pediatricians or had a pediatric subspecialty.
73% experienced episodes of overheating, depression, and anxiety.
75.6% felt exhausted from work, and 40.5% defined themselves as 'crushed'.
Despite challenges, most doctors expressed satisfaction with their work.
Interpretation:
This study provides quantitative data on burnout among Bulgarian physicians in PICUs, highlighting a significant prevalence of burnout symptoms and its implications for healthcare practices.
Limitations:
The study may not represent all PICU staff due to the limited number of respondents.
The survey's reliance on self-reported data may introduce bias.
The timing of the survey may have influenced responses, as it was conducted during a specific period.
Conclusion:
Burnout among healthcare professionals is a global issue affecting productivity and patient care quality, necessitating urgent solutions such as establishing pediatric intensive care as a distinct specialty.
