Burnout in medical residents: a questionnaire and interview study

High burnout levels have been observed in medical residents. The purpose of this study is to assess the burnout rates and potential determinants of burnout in a sample of medical residents. In total, 58 medical residents working in a Dutch teaching hospital, received questionnaires at home, including the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). In addition, they were asked for an in-depth interview to investigate the relevant indicators for developing burnout. In total, 47 residents responded (81%) from which 15 (31%) met the MBI criteria for burnout. Work-family conflict, work-related autonomy and level of work-engagement were significantly associated with burnout. Ten respondents were interviewed; none of those reported any serious burnout symptoms but two met the criteria for burnout. In this study, burnout rates from questionnaires and interviews in medical residents are not consistent. Regular burnout screenings and performing interviews are recommended in addition to burnout questionnaires, in order to efficiently identify residents at risk for burnout. This allows improved monitoring of a resident's mental state thus facilitating prevention of escalating burnout symptoms. Future research could focus on preventive factors for developing burnout.