[French residents in anaesthesia and critical care - a nationwide survey].

OBJECTIVE

We surveyed the residents in their first (R1) and fourth (R4, last) years of residency in anaesthesia and intensive care in France.

METHODS

The questionnaires mailed to each resident were designed to obtain personal data, motivation for specializing in anaesthesia and their opinion of their training.

RESULTS

The response rates were 48% for the R1 residents and 77% for the R4 residents. There were 40% females in this population and the R1 residents were 25 +/- 1 year old, 29 +/- 2 year-old for the R4 residents. Almost half (46%) of the R1 responders were married as were 74% of the R4 residents. They spent an average of 726 each year on books, computers and other educational items. Most (71%) had opted for anaesthesia after considering other medical specialties, but only 12% had considered surgery. Half (51%) were on a training program that was far away from their home. They thought highly of their training, with the clinical training being rated above the non-clinical component. About half of them had obtained specialized certificates (mainly additional certification in intensive care and antibiotic therapy) during their residency. Two thirds of those in R4 expected to work in a public hospital and about one third expected to work in intensive care. Money was an important factor in their choice of profession. A majority planned to remain in the area where they had graduated in anaesthesia after their residency. Finally, 96% declared that they would choose anaesthesia again if they had to do so.

CONCLUSION

French residents in anaesthesia are satisfied of their initial choice for anaesthesia and don't regret it at the end of their residency training.