Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for Residents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Abstract
BackgroundBurnout is highly prevalent in residents. No randomized controlled trials have been conducted measuring the effects of Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on burnout in residents.ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of MBSR in reducing burnout in residents.DesignA randomized controlled trial comparing MBSR with a waitlist control group.ParticipantsResidents from all medical, surgical and primary care disciplines were eligible to participate. Participants were self-referred.InterventionThe MBSR consisted of eight weekly 2.5-h sessions and one 6-h silent day.Main MeasuresThe primary outcome was the emotional exhaustion subscale of the Dutch version of the Maslach Burnout Inventory–Human Service Survey. Secondary outcomes included the depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment subscales of burnout, worry, work–home interference, mindfulness skills, self-compassion, positive mental health, empathy and medical errors. Assessment took place at baseline and post-intervention approximately 3 months later.Key ResultsOf the 148 residents participating, 138 (93%) completed the post-intervention assessment. No significant difference in emotional exhaustion was found between the two groups. However, the MBSR group reported significantly greater improvements than the control group in personal accomplishment (p = 0.028, d = 0.24), worry (p = 0.036, d = 0.23), mindfulness skills (p = 0.010, d = 0.33), self-compassion (p = 0.010, d = 0.35) and perspective-taking…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design.
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