The short timers syndrome (STS) was first described and studied in the military. Although not a new phenomenon, it was more formally recognized in the 20th century during the two World Wars. The STS has been well documented during all major military conflicts and deployments since then. In a way, STS can be viewed as an extreme form of burnout. As such, STS can be observed among medical trainees who are on busy clinical services for prolonged periods of time. In addition to its negative effects on the healthcare team, burnout and STS have the potential to adversely affect patient care. It is important to be aware of signs and symptoms associated with medical trainee burnout and STS because early recognition of these signs may allow prompt intervention and prevent further progression of burnout.

Citation: Stawicki SP. Short timers syndrome among medical trainees: Beyond burnout. OPUS 12 Scientist 2008;2(1):30-32.

Keywords: Medical training, Short timers syndrome, Burnout, Prevention strategies, Identification strategies.

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