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The impaired and/or disabled anesthesiologist.
1aYale University School of Medicine, New Haven bFrank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University, North Haven cSt Vincent Medical Center, Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA.
Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology
|December 23, 2016
Summary
Anesthesiologists face career impairment from various causes, including substance use disorders, physical ailments, and psychiatric conditions. Understanding and addressing impairment is crucial for safe anesthesia practice and professional well-being.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Occupational Health
- Medical Professionalism
Background:
- A significant number of anesthesiologists will experience impairment during their careers.
- Identifying and managing impaired anesthesiologists presents unique challenges for colleagues and healthcare systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review common causes of impairment in anesthesiologists.
- To discuss the professional implications of these conditions.
- To outline the obligations of anesthesiologists and their colleagues when impairment is suspected.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of common causes of anesthesiologist impairment.
- Analysis of professional implications and management strategies.
- Examination of ethical and professional obligations.
Main Results:
- Substance use disorder is a leading cause of impairment among anesthesiologists.
- Other significant causes include physical ailments, psychiatric disorders (depression, burnout), and dementia.
- Protocols and programs exist to identify and treat impaired anesthesiologists.
Conclusions:
- Approximately one-third of anesthesiologists will experience some form of impairment.
- Understanding the impact of impairment on safe anesthesia practice is essential.
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