Biosensors, Biomarkers and Biometrics: a Bootcamp Perspective

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Physiology
• Wearable Technology

Background:

• Professional healthcare monitoring lags behind competitive performance tracking.
• Trainee stress and burnout pose risks to patient safety.
• UK Core Surgical Trainees (CSTs) experience significant stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the physiological stress response of CSTs during simulation training.
• To investigate the relationship between stress levels and training activities.
• To explore correlations between physiological stress and burnout indicators.

Main Methods:

• Twenty CSTs (10 male) were monitored using Vital Scout Wellness Monitors over a 3-day training bootcamp.
• Physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate) were recorded.
• Data included demographics, event diaries, and Maslach Burnout Inventory scores.

Main Results:

• Baseline heart rate and respiratory rate varied significantly between individuals.
• Heart rate and respiratory rate increased significantly during lectures, clinical skills simulation, and non-technical skills training.
• Higher heart rate during clinical skills simulation correlated with emotional exhaustion.

Conclusions:

• Simulation training elicits significant physiological stress responses in surgical trainees.
• The intensity of training activities directly impacts trainees' heart and respiratory rates.
• Physiological stress monitoring may offer insights into trainee well-being and potential burnout.