Surgeon–Anesthesiologist Relationship for Patient Safety: Prospective study

Abstract

Differences in information, opinion, values, experience, and interests between a medical surgeon and an anesthesiologist resuscitator can occur when working in environments with high pressure such as operating rooms, which can trigger conflicts. The objective of our study is to assess the perceived causes that trigger their conflicts. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective observational study conducted within the operating theater department of the Military Instruction Hospital Mohammed V Rabat (HMIMV). Results: 41 anesthesiologists and 38 surgeons participated. Personal and organizational causes were the most common. For surgeons, the most frequent cause of the conflict was delayed anesthesia startup (71%) while anesthesiologists considered lack of communication the most important cause of conflict (82%). We noted that participants of all levels agree that lack of communication and personality traits are the most frequent causes of conflict in the operating room. Conclusion: The causes of conflicts between surgeons and anesthesiologists in our study are similar to those found in the literature. Clear guidelines about the most common causes of conflicts will reduce their frequency and allow them to be managed well.