Review of emotional intelligence in health care: an introduction to emotional intelligence for surgeons

Emotional Intelligence in Medicine: An Investigation of the Significance for Physicians, Residents, and Medical Students - A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Physicians, residents, and medical students consistently report higher levels of stress, anxiety, depression, burnout, and suicide compared to the general population. Emotional intelligence is a trait 1 possesses that has been shown to have associations with aspects of mental health specifically in the medical field. It has also been studied in business literature demonstrating multiple performance benefits. The purpose of this review is to investigate the relationship of emotional intelligence and mental health and well-being, clinical performance, and academic success with physicians, residents, and medical students.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted of studies investigating the associations of emotional intelligence on physicians, residents, or medical students between 2013 and 2023. Studies investigating the association of empathy within the study population were also included. Studies must have used a validated measure or reported a reliable method of measuring emotional intelligence or empathy.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine articles were included. The trait emotional intelligence questionnaire short form was the most frequently used assessment tool (28%). Mental health and well-being was the most common study outcome (67%). Twenty articles reported lower levels of burnout in those with higher emotional intelligence levels. (p < 0.05). Other protective associations of emotional intelligence included decreased levels of anxiety, stress, and depression (p < 0.05). Emotional intelligence was associated with multiple clinical performance metrics including patient satisfaction, perceived communication ratings, patient information recall, and improved decision making under operational stress (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Emotional intelligence has beneficial associations for physicians at all levels of training. Those entering with higher levels of emotional intelligence may be better suited to handle the psychological effects described within the healthcare field. Emotional intelligence can also be improved through training. Using emotional intelligence as part of a holistic screening process may help predict and enhance the success of doctors, residents, and medical students, which can contribute to improving the healthcare system.

Emotional intelligence and LEGO-based communication assessments as indicators of peer evaluations

INTRODUCTION

Much attention and effort are devoted to general surgery residency applicant interview strategies and ranking. However, few interview strategies are positively associated with applicant communication performance. The purpose of this study was to assess the potential of a LEGO-based communication assessment and a standardized patient-based emotional intelligence assessment to serve as an indicator for communication and interpersonal skills among peers in residency.

METHODS

We examined general surgery residents who interviewed virtually at our institution in 2021-2022, then matriculated in 2022-2023. Residents' LEGO-based communication and emotional intelligence interview assessments were evaluated for associations with peer evaluations in intern year. A regression analysis was conducted testing the association between each assessment and peer-evaluation metrics, controlling for resident track (preliminary, categorical).

RESULTS

Performance on LEGO-based communication assessments was significantly associated with peer evaluation of cross-cover performance (B = 0.09, standard error 0.044, 95% confidence interval 0.001-0.187, P = .048), whereas emotional intelligence scores had no significant association (P = .155). In contrast, performance on the LEGO-based communication assessments were associated with peer evaluations for desirability as a coworker (B = 0.098, standard error 0.038, 95% confidence interval 0.017-0.178, P = .021), whereas emotional intelligence scores were negatively associated with desirability as a coworker (B = -0.255, standard error 0.107, 95% confidence interval -0.482 to -0.029], P = .029).

CONCLUSION

Although LEGO-based communication assessments before residency are associated with better resident peer evaluations 1 year into residency, our emotional intelligence applicant assessment during recruitment did not provide clear insight into resident performance. Future research should consider the ability of standardized assessments to predict performance.

The relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for organizational change among nurses

Organizational change is a complex process that often faces high failure rates due to challenges in managing transition issues. The role of emotional intelligence in fostering readiness for organizational change among nurses remains understudied, especially in the context of Jordan. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for organizational change among Jordanian nurses working in governmental hospitals. A descriptive cross sectional correlational design was used. A convenient sampling method was used to enroll Jordanian nurses from different governmental hospitals, with a resulting final sample of 250 nurses. Self-reported questionnaires were used to collect data. Data analysis was run using descriptive and inferential analysis. The findings revealed that the participants had moderate levels of emotional intelligence with a mean score of (M = 87.96, SD = 26.59). The participants demonstrated strengths in understanding their own emotions, perceiving others' emotions, and setting goals. They also showed good control of their emotions and a positive self-perception. Regarding readiness for organizational change, the mean score was (M = 39.58, SD = 11.16), suggesting a moderate level of readiness. The participants exhibited commitment, motivation, and confidence in handling challenges associated with change. A strong positive relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for change commitment (r = .942, P < .01), change efficacy (r = .935, P < .01), and total readiness for change (r = .951, P < .01) were exist. Moreover, age and years of experience were negatively correlated with readiness for change. There was a strong and significant positive relationship between emotional intelligence and readiness for change. This emphasizes the importance of developing emotional intelligence abilities among nurses to facilitate successful change processes in healthcare organizations.

A comprehensive analysis of leadership attributes, discrepancies, and implications for gender equity in vascular surgery

OBJECTIVE

Well-developed leadership skills have been associated with a better understanding of health care context, increased team performance, and improved patient outcomes. Surgeons, in particular, stand to benefit from leadership development. Although studies have focused on investigating knowledge gaps and needs of surgeons in leadership roles, there is a noticeable gap in the literature concerning leadership in vascular surgery. The goal of this study was to characterize current leadership attributes of vascular surgeons and understand demographic influences on leadership patterns.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was a descriptive analysis of vascular surgeons and their observers who took the Leadership Practices Inventory (LPI) from 2020 to 2023. The LPI is a 30-question inventory that measures the frequency of specific leadership behaviors across five practices of leadership.

RESULTS

A total of 110 vascular surgeons completed the LPI. The majority of participants were White (56%) and identified as male (60%). Vascular surgeons most frequently observed the "enabling others to act" leadership practice style (8.90 ± 0.74) by all evaluators. Vascular surgeons were most frequently above the 70th percentile in the "challenge the process" leadership practice style (49%) compared with the average of other leaders worldwide. Observers rated vascular surgeons as displaying significantly more frequent leadership behaviors than vascular surgeons rated themselves in every leadership practice style (P < .01). The only demographic variable associated with a significantly increased occurrence of achieving 70th percentile across all five leadership practice styles was the male gender: a multivariable model adjusting for objective experience showed that men were at least 3.5 times more likely to be rated above the 70th percentile than women.

CONCLUSIONS

Vascular surgeons under-report the frequency at which they practice leadership skills across all five leadership practice styles and should recognize their strengths of enabling others to act and challenging the process. Men are recognized as exhibiting all five leadership practices more frequently than women, regardless of current position or experience level. This observation may reflect the limited leadership positions available for women, thereby restricting their opportunities to demonstrate leadership practices as frequently or recognizably as their male counterparts.

Emotional intelligence in military medical officers in the Defence Medical Services

BACKGROUND

Emotional intelligence (EI) is a concept describing an individual's ability to understand, process and act accordingly on others' and one's own emotions. It is a desirable quality for people working in teams and is beneficial to the individual in many ways. It is increasingly recognised that understanding and developing EI are important to working in the healthcare environment. It becomes especially pertinent in the deployed Defence Medical Services (DMS), where clinicians often fulfil a significant leadership role in a small team.

METHODS

This study was performed with the aim of exploring the role of EI in military doctors in the UK DMS. EI was measured in a cohort of 64 military doctors by way of a validated self-assessment questionnaire. Results were tested for differences in EI between different services and career stages.

RESULTS

The survey had an 83% return rate. There was roughly equal distribution between service, career groups and ages across the study population. There were more men than women. The population showed consistently high EI scores compared with control data. There were no statistical differences in EI scores between services or genders. Foundation doctors showed the highest EI scores and consultants the lowest (6.05 vs 5.3).

CONCLUSION

It was demonstrated that military doctors have consistently high EI score, especially at the most junior level. This suggests that traits deemed desirable by the single service selection processes also pertain to high EI without it being specifically measured for. The dangers of having too high EI and the benefits of having a range of EI within a team were discussed. There were limitations of being unable to obtain qualitative data and not including primary healthcare staff. Several recommendations were set out as to how the DMS may use or further investigate EI with regard to training and recruitment.

Evolving challenges of leadership in surgery to improve inclusivity, representation, and well-being

BACKGROUND

Leadership is a complex and demanding process crucial to maintaining quality in surgical systems of care. Once an autocratic practice, modern-day surgical leaders must demonstrate inclusivity, flexibility, emotional competence, team-building, and a multidisciplinary approach. The complex healthcare environment challenges those in leadership positions. The aim of this narrative review was to consolidate the major challenges facing surgeons today and to suggest evidence-based strategies to support surgical leaders.

METHODS

Google Scholar, PubMed, MEDLINE, and Ovid databases were searched to review literature on the challenges faced by surgical leaders. The commonly identified areas that compromise inclusivity and productive leadership practices were consolidated into 10 main subheadings. Further research was conducted using the aforementioned databases to outline the importance of addressing such challenges, and to consolidate evidence-based strategies to resolve them.

RESULTS

The importance of increasing representation of marginalized groups in leadership positions, including women, ethnic groups, the queer community, and ageing professionals, has been identified by surgical colleges in many countries. Leaders must create a collegial environment with proactive, honest communication and robust reporting pathways for victims of workplace harassment. The retention of diverse, empowering, and educating leaders relies on equitable opportunities, salaries, recognition, and support. Thus, it is important to implement formal training and mentorship, burnout prevention, conflict management, and well-being advocacy.

CONCLUSION

There are two aspects to addressing challenges facing surgical leadership; improving advocacy by and for leaders. Systems must be designed to support surgical leaders through formal education and training, meaningful mentorship programmes, and well-being advocacy, thus enabling them to proactively and productively advocate and care for their patients, colleagues, and professional communities.

Outcomes of Emotional Intelligence Training for Surgeons in a Real-World Setting: a Mixed Methods Study

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to assess, improve and re-assess Emotional Intelligence (EI) in a group of junior and senior surgeons in a real-world setting.

DESIGN

This was a mixed methods study. An EI education program was delivered through a series of webinars. The program drew from the central concepts of emotional intelligence: Motivation, empathy, social skills, self-knowledge, and self-control. There was also a component of professional development. EI assessment was performed pre- and post-intervention using the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) and a series of targeted questions. Qualitative assessment was performed by means of structured interviews examining uptake in techniques, understanding of EI, and its effect on personal and professional life.

SETTING

The Australia and New Zealand Training Board in Colorectal Surgery administers a 2-year bi-national training program in teaching hospitals in Australia and New Zealand and runs a series of educational webinars throughout the training program. The "EI series" was part of this educational program.

PARTICIPANTS

Webinars were attended by 35 junior surgeons and 8 senior surgeons RESULTS: Self-perceived knowledge and use of EI increased from a mean of 3.6 to 6.5 (p<0.0001). There was a significant difference between experiential (94) and strategic (101) scores (p=0.005). There was a nonsignificant improvement (98.04-100.6, p=0.16), in the pre-post MSCEIT among the junior surgeons and no change for senior surgeons. Seventy-eight percent (25/32) of surgeons interviewed reported using any new EI strategies. Seventy-five percent actively stopped and considered what other people in a clinical scenario may be thinking; 78% commenced metacognition; 81% practiced the process of self-regulation; 66% had begun to recognise and use emotions as data; and, 47% had actively practiced the process of self-distancing CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated the feasibility and utility of delivering EI training in an online format to a group of time-poor surgeons in a real-world setting.

A scoping review of emotions and related constructs in simulation-based education research articles

BACKGROUND

While acknowledgement of emotions' importance in simulation-based education is emerging, there are concerns regarding how education researchers understand the concept of emotions for them to deliberately incorporate emotionally charged scenarios into simulation-based education. This concern is highlighted especially in the context of medical education often lacking strong theoretical integration. To map out how current simulation-based education literature conceptualises emotion, we conducted a scoping review on how emotions and closely related constructs (e.g. stress, and emotional intelligence) are conceptualised in simulation-based education articles that feature medical students, residents, and fellows.

METHODS

The scoping review was based on articles published in the last decade identified through database searches (EMBASE and Medline) and hand-searched articles. Data extraction included the constructs featured in the articles, their definitions, instruments used, and the types of emotions captured. Only empirical articles were included (e.g. no review or opinion articles). Data were charted via descriptive analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 141 articles were reviewed. Stress was featured in 88 of the articles, while emotions and emotional intelligence were highlighted in 45 and 34 articles respectively. Conceptualisations of emotions lacked integration of theory. Measurements of emotions mostly relied on self-reports while stress was often measured via physiological and self-report measurements. Negative emotions such as anxiety were sometimes seen as interchangeable with the term stress. No inferences were made about specific emotions of participants from their emotional intelligence.

CONCLUSIONS

Our scoping review illustrates that learners in simulation-based education are most often anxious and fearful. However, this is partially due to medical education prioritising measuring negative emotions. Further theoretical integration when examining emotions and stress may help broaden the scope towards other kinds of emotions and better conceptualisations of their impact. We call for simulation education researchers to reflect on how they understand emotions, and whether their understanding may neglect any specific aspect of affective experiences their simulation participants may have.

Using an Educational Intervention to Map our Surgical Teams' Function, Emotional Intelligence, Communication and Conflict Styles

OBJECTIVE

The leadership team invited surgical team members to participate in educational sessions that created self and other awareness as well as gathered baseline information about these topics: communication, conflict management, emotional intelligence, and teamwork.

DESIGN

Each educational session included an inventory that was completed to help participants understand their own characteristics and the characteristics of their team members. The results from these inventories were aggregated, relationships were identified, and the intervention was evaluated.

SETTING

A level 1 trauma center, Baylor Scott and White Health, in central Texas; a 636-bed tertiary care main hospital and an affiliated children's hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

An open invitation for all surgical team members yielded 551 interprofessional OR team members including anesthesia, attending physicians, nursing, physician assistants, residents, and administration.

RESULTS

Surgeons' communication styles were individual focused, while other team members were group focused. The most common conflict management mode for surgical team members on average was avoiding, and the least common was collaborating. Surgeons primarily used competing mode for conflict management, with avoiding coming in a close second. Finally, the 5 dysfunctions of a team inventory revealed low accountability scores, meaning the participants struggled with holding team members accountable.

CONCLUSIONS

Helping team members understand their own and others' strengths and blind spots will help create opportunity for more purposeful and clear communication. Additionally, this knowledge should improve efficiency and safety in the high-stakes environment of the operating room.

Personal Growth and Emotional Intelligence: Foundational Skills for the Leader

Emotional intelligence (EI) has gained popularity and is being seen as a necessity, spreading beyond the business world, and becoming universal. In that shift, medicine and medical education have started to see the importance. This is evident in mandatory curriculum and accreditation requirements. EI includes 4 primary domains with several subcompetencies under each domain. This article outlines several of the subcompetencies necessary for success as a physician, competencies that can be honed with targeted professional growth. Empathy, communication, conflict management, burnout, and leadership are discussed in an application way to help identify importance of and how to improve each.

Resilience and mental health in UK urology trainees

In the absence of published quantitative data on resilience and mental health in the UK urology trainees, this paper analyses the 2018 and 2021 General Medical Council National Training Surveys with regard to the outcomes of seven work-related questions for all trainees and at all stages of training. The answers to these questions are used as a proxy for burnout levels in urology trainees and also to understand the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on training. In addition, the extrinsic and intrinsic factors that may influence a urological trainee’s performance are reviewed as these can act as negative drivers on personal and professional performance. The use of a trainee’s reflective practice and emotional intelligence are promoted to allow early diagnosis of burnout and prompt institution of viable treatment options.

Level of evidence: 2b

Emotional Intelligence and Burnout Among Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Residents

Background

Burnout syndrome is common among surgical residents, negatively affecting their mental health, physical wellbeing, and work performance. We investigated the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and burnout among Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery residents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study examined 51 residents across different Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck surgery programs at various hospitals in Saudi Arabia using a survey conducted between January 2021 and March 2021. The questionnaire had different validated measurements of burnout and included the Trait EI Questionnaire-Short Form, Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services survey, and questions regarding demographics and job satisfaction.

Results

Of all the residents, 17.6% had a high risk of burnout, 39.2% had emotional exhaustion (EE), 29.4% had depersonalization (DP), and 43.1% had a low sense of personal accomplishment (PA). A statistically significant negative association was observed between the total EI score and EE (r = -0.577, p < 0.001) and DP (r = -0.765, p < 0.001), indicating that higher total EI scores were associated with lower EE levels.

Conclusions

Positive associations existed between high levels of EI, PA, and satisfaction with both surgical skills and specialty choice. Therefore, residency programs should use EI modifiers as tools to reduce the risk of burnout.

The effect of transactional analysis training on emotional intelligence in health professions students

BACKGROUND

Emotional intelligence (EI) is considered to present a significant predictor of work performance whereas Transactional analysis (TA) is the relational perspective in communication in managing emotions. We evaluated the effect of psycho-educational training in EI and TA (TEITA) on EI among health professions undergraduates, with post-training, and at 1-month follow-up.

METHODS

A total of 34 participants participated in the study where 17 participants were in the TEITA group and another 17 were in the control group. A quasi-experimental non-randomised, controlled cohort study was conducted, in which participants in the TEITA group were introduced to EI and TA concepts on a weekly basis for four weeks, at 90 min each time, and provided with opportunities for experiential sharing of emotions and coping mechanisms experienced in the previous week. Both TEITA and control groups received weekly EI and TA reading materials. All completed the 16-item Wong and Law EI Scale at baseline and post-training. The training group also completed the questionnaire at a 1-month follow-up. Wilcoxon Signed Ranks and Mann Whitney tests were used to analyse within a group and between group changes in EI scores.

RESULTS

Baseline EI scores in the TEITA group were lower than the control group. On completion of TEITA, EI scores in the TEITA group increased, and differences were not detected between groups. Within the TEITA group, paired increases in all domains were statistically significant, whereas, in the control group, the paired increase was only detected in the domain addressing regulations of emotion (ROE). Pre to post-training increases in EI scores were statically significantly greater in TEITA compared to control groups. At the 1-month follow-up, EI scores were sustained.

CONCLUSION

The psycho-educational training based on EI and TA is effective in enhancing EI among health professions undergraduates. Future research should investigate the effect of such training on observable inter-personal and socio-economic behaviours.

Mental 3D Visualization: Building Surgical Resilience for Performing High-Risk Procedures

OBJECTIVE

Psychological resilience has been studied in several demanding professions, including the military and competitive sports, yet specific strategies for managing stress are not commonly addressed during surgical training. The objective of this study was to investigate how surgeons view performance under pressure during high-risk surgical steps.

DESIGN

Using constructivist grounded theory, we conducted 12 individual semi-structured interviews with a theoretical sample teaching surgeons, representing 10 different specialties and a range of experience. We drew on Luthar's concept of resilience as positive adaptation, an active and flexible process in which critical choices are made in stressful situations. We asked about both protective and vulnerability factors contributing to resilience in high-risk surgery. We coded transcripts, transforming each category of codes into a visual schematic highlighting our findings related to performance under pressure and resilience, which we transformed into a conceptual model.

SETTING

Truman Medical Center, Kansas City, MO, tertiary hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Twelve teaching surgeons from 10 different surgical specialties.

RESULTS

Mental 3D visualization is necessary for proper preoperative planning, enacting contingency plans in the face of intra-operative challenges, and managing emotions during high-risk surgery. Each of these factors informs staying calm under pressure and is necessary for building long-term surgical resilience. Negotiating challenges in high-risk surgery is contingent upon adapting to risk developed over time through surgical experience, mental 3D visualization, intentionality, and self-reflection.

CONCLUSIONS

Mental 3D visualization informs processes for staying calm under pressure and is essential for building long-term surgical resilience. We recommend that residency curricula offer progressive education on mental 3D visualization and foster intraoperative environments that promote adapting to risk.

Trait Emotional Intelligence in Surgeons

Trait emotional intelligence (trait EI or trait emotional self-efficacy) concerns people's perceptions of their emotional functioning. Two studies investigated this construct in surgeons and comparison occupations. We hypothesized that trait EI profiles would differ both within surgical specialties as well as between them and other professions. Study 1 (N = 122) compared the trait EI profiles of four different surgical specialties (General, Orthopedic, Head and Neck, and Miscellaneous surgical specialties). There were no significant differences amongst these specialties or between consultant surgeons and trainees in these specialties. Accordingly, the surgical data were combined into a single target sample (N = 462) that was compared against samples of engineers, executives and senior managers, lawyers, junior military managers, nurses, and salespeople. Surgeons scored significantly higher on global trait EI than junior military managers, but lower than executives and senior managers, salespeople, and nurses. There were no significant differences vis-à-vis engineers or lawyers. A MANOVA confirmed a similar pattern of differences in the four trait EI factors (Wellbeing, Self-control, Sociability, and Emotionality). Global trait EI scores correlated strongly with single-question measures of job satisfaction (r = 0.47) and job performance (r = 0.46) in the surgical sample. These findings suggest that interventions to optimize the trait EI profiles of surgeons can be helpful in relation to job satisfaction, job performance, and overall psychological wellbeing.

Measuring and Improving Emotional Intelligence in Surgery: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate how emotional intelligence (EI) has been measured among surgeons and to investigate interventions implemented for improving EI.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND

EI has relevant applications in surgery given its alignment with nontechnical skills. In recent years, EI has been measured in a surgical context to evaluate its relationship with measures such as surgeon burnout and the surgeon-patient relationship.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted by searching MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PSYCINFO databases using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. MeSH terms and keywords included "emotional intelligence," "surgery," and "surgeon." Eligible studies included an EI assessment of surgeons, surgical residents, and/or medical students within a surgical context.

RESULTS

The initial search yielded 4627 articles. After duplicate removal, 4435 articles were screened by title and abstract and 49 articles proceeded to a full-text read. Three additional articles were found via hand search. A total of 37 articles were included. Studies varied in surgical specialties, settings, and outcome measurements. Most occurred in general surgery, residency programs, and utilized self-report surveys to estimate EI. Notably, EI improved in all studies utilizing an intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature entailing the intersection between EI and surgery is diverse but still limited. Generally, EI has been demonstrated to be beneficial in terms of overall well-being and job satisfaction while also protecting against burnout. EI skills may provide a promising modifiable target to achieve desirable outcomes for both the surgeon and the patient. Future studies may emphasize the relevance of EI in the context of surgical teamwork.

Cultural Considerations in Debriefing

SUMMARY STATEMENT

Culture influences how we communicate, teach, and learn. Debriefings are laden with cultural influences. Without attention to cultural considerations, accepted debriefing techniques might not reach the desired outcome and, in certain cultures, may even harm teacher-learner relationships. We explore cultural considerations in healthcare simulation debriefing and offer guidance for debriefers to gain awareness of potential cultural biases.

Different approaches to selection of surgical trainees in the European Union

BACKGROUND

There is an increasing global interest in selection processes for candidates to surgical training. The aim of the present study is to compare selection processes to specialist surgeon training in the European Union (EU). A secondary goal is to provide guidance for evidence-based methods by a proposed minimum standard that would align countries within the EU.

METHODS

Publications and grey literature describing selection strategies were sought. Correspondence with Union Européenne des Médecins Specialists (UEMS) Section of Surgery delegates was undertaken to solicit current information on national selection processes. Content analysis of 13 semi-structured interviews with experienced Swedish surgeons on the selection process. Two field trips to Ireland, a country with a centralized selection process were conducted. Based on collated information typical cases of selection in a centralized and decentralized setting, Ireland and Sweden, are described and compared.

RESULTS

A multitude of methods for selection to surgical training programs were documented in the 27 investigated countries, ranging from locally run processes with unstructured interviews to national systems for selection of trainees with elaborate structured interviews, and non-technical and technical skills assessments. Associated with the difference between centralized and decentralized selection systems is whether surgical training is primarily governed by an employment or educational logic. Ireland had the most centralized and elaborate system, conducting a double selection process using evidence-based methods along an educational logic. On the opposite end of the scale Sweden has a decentralized, local selection process with a paucity of evidence-based methods, no national guidelines and operates along an employment logic, and Spain that rely solely on examination tests to rank candidates.

CONCLUSION

The studied European countries all have different processes for selection of surgical trainees and the use of evidence-based methods for selection is variable despite similar educational systems. Selection in decentralized systems is currently often conducted non-transparent and subjectively. A suggested improvement towards an evidence-based framework for selection applicable in centralized and decentralized systems as well as educational and employer logics is suggested.

The workplace quality of life of university hospital digestive surgeons: Results of a 2019 nationwide survey

INTRODUCTION

Burnout syndrome (BOS) affects all professional categories, particularly in the medical sector. Perceived deterioration of working conditions in university hospital centres impacts not only hospital doctors, but also and more generally, university hospital (UH) staff. The goal of this survey was to analyse workplace quality of life among French UH digestive surgeons.

METHODS

An online questionnaire was addressed to all members of sub-section 52-02 (digestive and visceral surgery) of the national university council (CNU). It contained isolated questions, as well as the specific Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) questionnaire, which assesses three fields: personal burnout (PBO), work-related burnout (WBO) and client-related burnout (CBO).

RESULTS

While 132 (85%) out of the 156 surgeons responded, only 110 (70%) filled out the CBI questionnaire. Their perceptions of quality of life were poor or very poor (57%), and progressively poorer; this was mainly due to a lack of human, logistical and financial means, and also to conflictual relations with administration. The CBI questionnaire showed high scores for PBO (37%) and WBO (30%), with lower scores for CBO (8%). Depressive syndrome appeared among 26% of respondents. There were no significant differences according to region, gender or age.

CONCLUSION

This study objectifies a perceived deterioration of the working conditions of UH digestive surgeons, with elevated rates of BOS and a depressive risk superior to that of the overall population.

Could Emotional Intelligence Ability Predict Salary? A Cross-Sectional Study in a Multioccupational Sample

The study of emotional intelligence (EI) in work environments is a trending topic. However, few studies have examined the relationship between EI and salary. Therefore, the presented research aims to analyze the influence of EI on salary using a multioccupational sample. The participants were 785 subjects aged between 18 and 58 years (M = 39.41; SD = 10.95). EI ability was measured using the Mobile Emotional Intelligence Test (MEIT), while the salary was collected together with other sociodemographic variables in a questionnaire created ad hoc. After controlling for the age, gender, social class, educational level, and work experience variables, the results of correlation and regression analysis showed that participants with higher EI and emotional-repair capacity generally have higher salary. These findings provide preliminary evidence that EI is a relevant variable in achieving career success. The ability to channel and manage emotions could help employees develop stronger interpersonal relationships, leading to higher positions and greater financial compensation.

A Systematic Review of the Abdominal Surgeon's Personality: Exploring Common Traits in Western Populations

The personality traits commonly seen in abdominal surgeons remains undefined, and its potential influence on decision-making and patient outcomes underexplored. This systematic review identified studies on abdominal surgeons who had undergone validated personality testing, with assessment of decision-making and post-operative patient outcomes. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (University of York, UK (CRD42019151375)). MEDLINE, Embase, PsycInfo and Cochrane Library databases were searched using the keywords: surgeon; surgeon personality; outcomes. All study designs were accepted including adult visceral surgeons published in English. Five articles from 3056 abstracts met our inclusion criteria and one article was identified from hand searches with two reviewers screening studies. Bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Six studies included 386 surgeons. Studies assessing personality using the Five Factor Model (four studies, 329 surgeons) demonstrated higher levels of conscientiousness (self-discipline, thoughtfulness), extraversion (sociability, emotional expression) and openness (creative, conventional) in surgeons versus population norms. Surgeon characterisation of agreeableness and emotional stability was less clear, with studies reporting mixed results. Post-operative outcomes were reported by only one study. Further exploration of the influence of surgeon personality and its influence on decision-making is necessary to deliver patient-centred care and targeted non-technical skills training for surgeons.