How to Alleviate Burnout in Emergency Medical Practice

Emergency medicine, while fulfilling, has its unique challenges. Recent research indicates that the emergency department faces among the highest stress and burnout rates in healthcare. However, keeping your passion alive is crucial. Achieving a work/life equilibrium is central to a fulfilling, long-term career in the emergency department. With guidance from industry professionals, these strategies can help strike a harmonious balance between professional duties and personal life.

What signifies a balanced work-life dynamic? It differs for everyone, but there are ways to gauge it. Dr. Louise Andrew, an ex-professor in internal and emergency medicine at Johns Hopkins University and ex-chair of the Well-Being Committee for the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), suggests personal contentment as an indicator. She elaborates, “Balance means not solely focusing on work but equally distributing time between a fulfilling work and home life.”

Dr. David Farcy from Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach and AAEM president, defines balance as “engaging in favorite activities, like exercising, and still relishing work” without one side negatively impacting the other.

For Dr. Randall Levin, ACEP’s wellness section chair-elect, it's about feeling connected to every facet of life— your inner purpose, professional calling, and personal adventures.

Recognizing Burnout Indicators

The evolution from stress to burnout stems from imbalance. Recognizing them can be challenging, especially in high-tension environments like the ER. When does stress become debilitating?

Levin notes initial symptoms as feelings of detachment or inability to relish work or personal moments. “You might feel like just another gear in the system,” he remarks.

Andrew identifies prime burnout symptoms as emotional fatigue, seeing patients as tasks, and a dwindling sense of accomplishment.

Burnout creeps in gradually, Levin warns. Hence, he advises emergency professionals to routinely self-assess their job satisfaction. “If you sense barriers in connecting with life’s aspects, something’s amiss.”

Achieving Personal Balance

Juggling personal life becomes tougher for young professionals, especially those starting families early in their career. Levin emphasizes nurturing relationships and fostering mutual support systems.

Introducing kids to this equation can amplify challenges. However, successful strategies exist. Andrew, whose spouse was also an emergency physician, recalls working alternate shifts to ensure family time. “We'd unite in the late afternoon and evening,” she reminisces.

Dr. Rita Manfredi from George Washington University School of Medicine advises considering part-time roles or working at multiple places to allow more control.

Beyond family, indulging in external hobbies is beneficial. Levin, for instance, delved into supporting art events and even gold mining. Cultivating friendships outside the medical realm is crucial.

Andrew emphasizes befriending someone outside the healthcare circuit. Such a confidant provides an alternate viewpoint and emotional support.

Andrew believes many professionals lack this “essential component” in their life, and suggests turning to therapists or spiritual leaders if needed, although a friend is ideal.

Dr. Farcy also underscores discussing work challenges with a non-medical partner.

Striking Work Equilibrium

Farcy encourages dialogues with peers for fresh perspectives. Levin stresses mentorship and urges establishments to launch mentorship initiatives. He also advises reclaiming control and engaging more proactively.

“Be proactive rather than reactive,” he asserts. “Don’t blend into the system. Lead and influence changes.” He believes his involvement in hospital committees enhanced his resilience and rekindled his passion.

Manfredi believes connecting with every patient rejuvenates resilience. “In the first interaction, view them as a dear one. It’s transformative,” she advocates.

Optimizing work schedules, especially in shift-dependent roles, is advantageous. Farcy’s department adopts circadian rhythm-friendly shifts, ensuring breaks between different shifts for smoother transitions.

If all fails, Andrew highlights available resources, including confidential online support, to aid those hesitant to seek help.

Choosing a Supportive Workplace

If achieving balance in one workplace proves impossible, consider relocating. Andrew suggests conversing with both leaders and colleagues to gauge their contentment levels.

Both Andrew and Manfredi remind emergency practitioners of their adaptability and vast opportunities awaiting them. Ultimately, shaping a balanced and enduring medical career rests on you. Prioritizing your well-being is paramount to effectively aiding others in their recovery.