Pilot study evaluating a 12-h mindfulness-based curriculum for OB/GYN residents
Brennan Peterson1, Laura Fitzmaurice2, Julia K Boehm3
1Department of Marriage and Family Therapy, Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Orange, CA, USA.
Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice
|June 18, 2022
Summary
A 12-hour mindfulness curriculum improved mindfulness and self-compassion in first-year OB-GYN residents, with no significant change in burnout. These positive effects were sustained at 6-9 months post-intervention.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Psychology
- Wellness Programs
Background:
- Physician burnout is a significant concern, particularly among Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents.
- Mindfulness and self-compassion are recognized as potential protective factors against burnout.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a 12-hour mindfulness-based wellness curriculum on burnout, mindfulness, and self-compassion among first-year OB-GYN residents.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cohort study involving 14 first-year OB-GYN residents.
- Participants completed a 12-hour in-person curriculum with didactic, experiential, and home-based components.
- Assessments using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI), Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), and Self-Compassion Scale (SCS) were conducted at baseline, post-curriculum, and 6-9 months later.
Main Results:
- Burnout levels remained unchanged.
- Overall mindfulness significantly increased from baseline to 6-9 month follow-up (p < .05).
- Overall self-compassion significantly increased from baseline to 6-9 month follow-up (p < .05), with improvements in self-kindness and self-judgment.
Conclusions:
- A mindfulness-based wellness curriculum shows preliminary efficacy in enhancing mindfulness and self-compassion in early-career OB-GYN residents.
- The observed improvements in mindfulness and self-compassion were sustained at long-term follow-up.
