Burnout in Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants

Area of Science:

• Anesthesiology
• Healthcare Professionals
• Occupational Health

Background:

• Certified anesthesiologist assistants (CAAs) are vital Advanced Practice Providers (APPs) in anesthesia care teams.
• Burnout among healthcare professionals is a significant concern impacting patient care and provider well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence and contributing factors of burnout among CAAs nationwide.
• To assess the relationship between professional characteristics, work environment, and burnout levels in CAAs.

Main Methods:

• A national survey of CAAs was conducted, collecting data on demographics, work characteristics, salary/benefit perceptions, and burnout using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS).
• The Conditions for Work Effectiveness Questionnaire II and questions on wellness resources were also included.
• Statistical analysis identified factors associated with high scores on emotional exhaustion and depersonalization subscales.

Main Results:

• Out of 457 respondents (19.7% participation), 24.1% reported high emotional exhaustion and 10.3% reported high depersonalization.
• Factors linked to emotional exhaustion included younger age, full-time status, perceived unfair salary/benefits, and less empowerment.
• Younger age, full-time status, and less global empowerment were associated with depersonalization.

Conclusions:

• While CAAs may experience lower burnout than some anesthesia team members, they remain susceptible.
• Organizational leaders and CAAs share responsibility in implementing strategies to prevent burnout.
• Addressing factors like compensation, empowerment, and work resources is crucial for mitigating CAA burnout.