Burnout prevalence and influencing factors among Italian pediatric surgeons and residents: Insights from a nationwide survey

Introduction: Burnout (BO) is a significant issue among healthcare professionals, particularly in high-stress specialties like pediatric surgery. This study assessed BO prevalence among Italian pediatric surgeons and explored strategies to enhance workplace well-being. Methods: A 56-item electronic survey was distributed to all members via the Italian Society of Pediatric Surgery's network. BO was defined as the presence of a high score in emotional exhaustion (EE) (≥30) and depersonalization (DP) (≥12), coupled with a low score in personal accomplishment (PA) (≤33). Data were analyzed using median and interquartile range for continuous variables and absolute frequencies for categorical variables. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with BO. Results: Of 226 responders (88 residents), 17.3 % (39/226) met the criteria for burnout. High EE scores were observed in 50.9 % of respondents (115/226), while 64.6 % (146/226) had a low PA score, and 26.1 % (59/226) a high DP score. Univariate logistic regression identified that earning <2000€ per month, being a resident, working more than 50 h per week, having a poor relationship with chief physicians and working in understaffed departments are associated with higher risk of BO (p < 0.005). However, in the multivariate logistic regression model, only a poor relationship with chief physicians remained statistically significant (p = 0.02). Working in understaffed conditions and exceeding 50 weekly working hours approached significance (p = 0.08 and p = 0.09, respectively). Conclusions: BO significantly impacts pediatric surgeons, especially those having a poor relationship with chief physicians, residents, those working long hours or in understaffed departments. Hospitals should adopt strategies to improve pediatric surgeons' mental health like improving leadership strategies, optimizing workplace organization, fostering support networks, encouraging social interactions, and establishing coaching programs.