[Personality traits in anesthesiology : Results from a questionnaire-based requirements analysis]

Criteria for the identification of suitable applicants for undergraduate and postgraduate medical education are greatly and ubiquitously discussed. Apart from the acquisition of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, certain personality traits are necessary for practicing the medical profession; however, little is known on the personality traits required for medical subspecialties. This study had two objectives: 1) identification and evaluation of personality traits which are essential for performing anesthesiology and 2) establishment of a job specification for anesthesiology.

We performed a survey among German anesthesiologists using an online questionnaire. This questionnaire collected demographic data, such as age, gender, level of postgraduate education and 28 personality traits from 5 categories: cognition, psychomotor, physical, sensory and social interactive properties. The participants were asked to rate the personality traits on a 5-point Likert scale. Statistical analysis was performed using an ANOVA.

A total of 714 questionnaires were analyzed. Social interactive skills and cognitive personality traits were considered as most important for a clinical career in anesthesiology. The three personality traits rated highest were a high decision-making ability, stress tolerance and speed of perception. Furthermore, a high apprehension, affability and patient-oriented behavior are needed.

A job specification describing important personality traits can be useful to advise both undergraduates and postgraduates on their medical career and for medical team simulation tasks. For the clinical practice in anesthesiology, for example, high social interactive and cognitive personality traits are required.