Examining workload variations among different surgical team roles, specialties, and techniques: A multicenter cross-sectional descriptive study

10^th International Conference on Surgery and Anaesthesia

May 19-20, 2025 Zurich, Switzerland

Akram Aarabi

Isfahan university of medical sciences, Iran

Scientific Tracks Abstracts: Surgery

Abstract :

Background: A high workload may negatively impact the surgical team’s performance and jeopardize patient safety. The aim of this study was to measure the workload of the surgical team across different surgical roles, specialties, and techniques in several hospitals. Methods: This cross-sectional multicenter study was performed in the operating rooms of eight teaching hospitals affiliated with Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. At the conclusion of each surgical procedure, all members of the surgical team completed the Surgery Task Load Index (SURG-TLX) questionnaire to assess workload levels. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Pearson correlations, were performed to compare surgical roles, specialties, techniques, and surgical time on workload overall and by subscale. Results: A total of 409 workload questionnaires were obtained from 76 surgical teams or cases, involving 346 surgical team members. The total workload among all participants was 32.41 ± 17.21. Surgical complexity, physical demands, and mental demands were the highest workload subscales and distraction was the lowest workload subscale. Cardiovascular specialty had a higher workload compared to other specialties. Open techniques resulted in a higher workload compared to minimally invasive techniques. Surgical technologists who act in both the role of circulating and scrub nurse (C&Ss) experienced the highest workload, followed by surgical residents and surgeons. Conclusions: The results of the study showed that the workload for some members of the surgical team is disproportionately high and is influenced by factors such as specialty, technique, role, and surgical duration. By knowing the distribution of workload among the members of the surgical team, efforts can be made to optimize the team members’ workload.

Biography :

Akram Aarabi is affiliated to Isfahan university of medical sciences, Iran. He is a recipient of many awards and grants for his valuable contributions and discoveries in major area of health research. His international experience includes various programs, contributions and participation in different countries for diverse fields of study. His research interests reflect in his wide range of publications in various national and international journals.