Training satisfaction and well-being among veterinary anaesthesia residents: time for action

Abstract

Objective: To explore the satisfaction and well-being experienced by anaesthesia residents during their training, and to investigate factors that may have influenced their experiences.

Study design: Cross-sectional online anonymous voluntary survey.

Sample population: A total of 150 (of approximately 600 canvassed) former veterinary anaesthesia residents.

Methods: Participants were invited to complete an internet-based survey regarding the satisfaction and well-being experienced during their residency. Multiple choice, categorical, dichotomous, Likert-type rating scales and slider questions were used to investigate five domains (demographic, working conditions, educational environment, training satisfaction, well-being). Sampling adequacy, questionnaire reliability and participant responses were investigated by Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) indices, Cronbach's α and standard statistical techniques, respectively (p < 0.05).

Results: The questionnaire demonstrated good sampling adequacy (median KMO index 0.74; range 0.51-0.89) and high item 'reliability' (α = 0.82-0.94). Of the 150 responders, (25% participation rate) 62% were satisfied, 14% were neutral and 24% were dissatisfied with their residency training; 60.6% would do the residency again, 39.3% would not or were unsure. Sex and age did not correlate with training satisfaction (p > 0.05). Salary/stipend was considered inadequate by 70% of responders; 66% received no on-call supplement. Greater supervisory input, a good working environment and extra income when on-call were positively correlated with training satisfaction (p < 0.01). The majority (94.6%) of trainees suffered from at least one medical condition during their residency, with fatigue, sleep disturbance or anxiety reported by > 62%.

Conclusions: Although a quarter of responders were dissatisfied with their residency, several modifiable factors were identified, particularly with respect to supervisors' input, working environment and pay, which could inform improvements for future residency programmes. Most trainees experienced negative health impacts; however, this parallels the general situation in both the medical and veterinary professions, which requires greater attention from the supervisors, trainees and colleges.

Keywords: anaesthesia; burnout; residency; satisfaction; training; well-being.