PEDIATRIC INTENSIVISTS IN SOUTHEAST BRAZIL: QUALIFICATION AND PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE

Objective To describe aspects of the qualification and professional performance of pediatric intensivists in the southeast of Brazil (Rio de Janeiro). Methods Cross-sectional survey, accomplished through visit to all units and answers to a semi-structured, volunteer, anonym and individual questionnaire. Results Of the 100 units, 87 agreed to participate (23% PICUs, 40% NICUs and 37% mixed), 410 (31%) questionnaires were answered (21% pediatric intensivists, 43% neonatal and 36% from mixed units). Feminine majority (84%), 61% with up to 40 years and working in up to two units, 68% earning € 1.000,00 to 2.000,00 and only 40% working exclusively in the specialty. The majority (92%) concluded Residence in general pediatrics; 50% working in neonatology completed Residence in the area, while only 27% working in PICUs had specific formation. Most (69%) have a certificate of specialist in pediatrics, while only 37% that work in neonatology and 19% working in PICUs have a certificate in the specialty. Only 10% with mastership and 1% doctorate. Most (73%) participated in Congresses in the last 5 years and 55% use the Internet less than 3 h/wk to update, although only 16% subscribe to medical journals in the specialty. Most (74%) do not participate in research activities and only 9% have publications. Most (63%) are not satisfied with professional performance, 49% for work conditions, 23% for low income and 18% for poor quality of formation. Conclusion The qualification of intensivists in the southeast of Brazil is still deficient, being more precarious in pediatric intensive care than in neonatology.