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Review
. 2023 Mar;41(1):303-316.
doi: 10.1016/j.anclin.2022.10.009.

Health and Well-Being of Intensive Care Unit Physicians: How to Ensure the Longevity of a Critical Specialty

John C Klick  1 , Madiha Syed  2 , Ron Leong  3 , Haley Miranda  4 , Elizabeth K Cotter  5
Affiliations
Review

Health and Well-Being of Intensive Care Unit Physicians: How to Ensure the Longevity of a Critical Specialty

John C Klick et al. Anesthesiol Clin. 2023 Mar.

Abstract

A second epidemic of burnout, fatigue, anxiety, and moral distress has emerged concurrently with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, and critical care physicians are especially affected. This article reviews the history of burnout in health care workers, presents the signs and symptoms, discusses the specific impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on intensive care unit caregivers, and attempts to identify potential strategies to combat the Great Resignation disproportionately affecting health care workers. The article also focuses on how the specialty can amplify the voices and highlight the leadership potential of underrepresented minorities, physicians with disabilities, and the aging physician population.

Keywords: Burnout; COVID-19; Diversity; ICU staffing; Inclusion; Moral distress; Wellness.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Risk factors associated with burnout syndrome.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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