Introduction
Burnout, which is characterized by emotional exhaustion,
depersonalization, and reduced personal accomplishment due to prolonged
workplace stress, is a major concern for healthcare professionals,
including urology residents [1]. The literature has increasingly
focused on the prevalence, risk factors, and consequences of burnout
within the urology field in recent years. Urology residents are highly
susceptible to burnout. A study published in the Journal of Urology
found that 54% of urology residents experienced burnout, with emotional
exhaustion being the most reported symptom. High workload, poor
work-life balance, and limited social
support were identified as key risk factors for burnout among urology
residents. The impact of burnout on urology residents can be profound,
potentially leading to reduced job satisfaction, decreased empathy for
patients, and even early retirement from the field [1,2].
In this narrative review, we use both thematic and critical review
methods to gain deeper insight into the complex issue of burnout among
urology residents. Our thematic review explores key themes such as the
impact of excessive workload on physical and mental health and the
inadequate support for overworked urology residents, while our critical
review examines contributing factors such as the culture of the medical
field and poor leadership practices. Our critical review examines
contributing factors such as the culture of the medical field and poor
leadership practices. In this culture, long work hours and a high
workload are seen as necessary sacrifices to become successful
physicians. As a result, overworked urology residents may feel that
burnout is a personal failure or that acknowledging it is a sign of
weakness. Additionally, poor leadership practices, disregarding the
residents’ wellbeing, are associated with inadequate staffing and
unrealistic expectations.
By identifying contributing factors and proposing workable solutions, we
aim to improve the quality of care while mitigating negative outcomes
for urology residents suffering from burnout.
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