In Physicians and Athletic Trainers, Is Burnout Associated With Self-Reported Medical Errors: A Critically Appraised Topic

Abstract

Clinical Question: In physicians and athletic trainers, is burnout associated with self-reported medical errors (MEs)? Clinical Bottom Line: Burnout directly increased the odds of self-reported ME. Physicians and surgeons with burnout had a higher risk of an self-reported ME than athletic trainers with burnout. This disparity may reflect the different definitions, oversight, and opportunities to commit MEs in the respective fields. Emotional exhaustion and personnel accomplishment appear to drive MEs within clinically practicing athletic trainers, whereas emotional exhaustion and depersonalization are indicative of MEs within practicing physicians. Understanding the mechanism behind burnout within practice settings may provide insights into mitigation strategies to reduce MEs and improve patient outcomes. Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy B.