Surgeons Experience Emotional Distress from Caring for Dying Patients

A systematic scoping review reveals that surgeons face significant emotional turmoil while caring for dying patients and their families. The study, analyzing 26 articles, found that without personalized and timely support, surgeons are at risk of depression, burnout, and substance abuse, impacting patient safety and satisfaction. Key themes identified include the effects on personal identity and various predisposing factors related to this distress. The need for robust assessment tools to support surgeons is critical.