Physician Health & Safety: Fatigue & Performance

Physical signs and symptoms of fatigue

• Excessive Tiredness

• Sleepiness, including falling asleep against the

individual’s will (micro sleeps)

• Irritability

• Depression

• Giddiness

• Loss of appetite

• Digestive problems

• An increased susceptibility to illness

Performance impairments

• Slowed reactions – physical reaction speed and speed of thought

• Failure to respond to stimuli, changes in the surroundings, information provided

• Incorrect actions either physical or mental

• Flawed logic and judgment and an inability to concentrate

• Increases in memory errors, including forgetfulness

• Decrease in vigilance

• Reduced motivation

• Increased tendency for risk-taking

Resources for Residents:

1) Program Director/Associate Program Director/Faculty

2) Family Physician

3) Physician Wellbeing Committee

4) Human Resources Physician Support

SUMMARY: Assuming a strict application of the 80-hour work rules, if a resident is still suffering from signs and symptoms of fatigue, it is important that the individual seek help for available sources for his/her own safety, and the safety of patients and colleagues. Any faculty members observing signs and symptoms of fatigue in any resident also has a responsibility to discuss this with the individual.