Burnout in Ophthalmology Residents in a Tertiary Referral Hospital in Mexico City

BackgroundBurnout is a syndrome conceptualized as a consequence of chronic workplace stress and is characterized by three dimensions: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment. The Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) is the most widely used instrument to assess burnout. Due to cultural, political, and sociocultural factors, burnout rates are reported to be higher in Mexico. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of burnout and the factors associated with its development among residents in general ophthalmology and subspecialties at the Asociación Para Evitar la Ceguera (APEC) in Mexico using the MBI. MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted using Google Forms and distributed via social networks and email between January and March 2023 to residents training at APEC. The survey consisted of five sections, including the MBI. Data analysis was performed using the SPSS statistical package. ResultsA total of 55 responses were obtained from 122 residents, yielding a response rate of 45%. The prevalence of burnout was 76% (95% CI: 0.65–0.88). Factors significantly associated with burnout included lack of sleep, self-perception of an unhealthy diet, and the number of days per week spent providing consultations. Additionally, burnout was associated with residents’ self-perception of having made medical errors. ConclusionBurnout is highly prevalent among ophthalmology residents. Several factors may contribute to its development, particularly sleep deprivation and increased workload. Conducting studies of this nature is essential to identify risk factors and to design effective interventions aimed at improving the well-being and performance of this population.