It has been observed that a medical trainee (post MBBS, Junior Resident) has to work for more than 15 hours per day. I have also come across specialties where the Residents are made to work for 18-20 hrs. I feel bad as it compromises their health and efficiency. This can indirectly affect patient care. How can we tackle this issue?
This is important to regulate working hours for residents (junior as well as senior). I do not suggest any stringent limit, but would like that residents work comfortably. This will improve their learning as well as efficiency. Following measures may help in regulation of working hours
1. A resident who have done duty (12 or 24 hours) should be relieved within an hour.
2. Residents should get weekly off.
3. Residents should get a week or two off from work before submitting their thesis protocol or final thesis.
4. Residents should be encouraged to take leaves for which they are entitled.
5. While making a duty roster, (specifically in clinical department where workload is significant )there should be provision for second on call. Person on second on call may be called to assist in case need arise.
6. Provision should be made for breakfast/ lunch/ dinner and tea/coffee in the hospital premises or preferably in ward for at least residents on duty.
Al these measures may help improve efficiency and learning. The experience of residency may become more enjoyable.
Thank you sir for responding to this sensitive issue. I hope that we can incorporate these suggestion to make medical residency relatively comfortable
Regards
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