Perceived stress factors among resident doctors in a Nigerian teaching hospital

The study was aimed at identifying psychological factors that are perceived stressful by resident doctors at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital.

A self-administered questionnaire was given to 84 eligible residents. Only 57(67.9%) properly completed and returned the questionnaire. The questionnaire sought information on sociodemographic variables, factors perceived as stressful and the degree of perception.

High patient load, poor work environment, distant accommodation and lack of recreational facilities within the hospital premises were identified as stressors. Age, gender and number of dependants had no correlation with perception of stress.

It was concluded that stakeholders in postgraduate medical education should, in keeping with their resources and level of development, employ more residents, improve work environment and provide accommodation and recreational facilities. These will go a long way in improving the quality of residents trained and the services rendered.