Long-Term Follow-Up on the Educational Impact of ACGME Duty Hour Limits

Abstract

After the implementation of the 2003 duty hour limits, residents' perceptions of fatigue improved without any increase in the reported amount of sleep. In addition, decreased resident satisfaction with their education and a diminished sense of clinical preparedness were noted. Additional studies are needed to better understand the influence of work hours and fatigue on the outcomes of education, resident well-being, and patient care to guide the optimal design and delivery of graduate medical education.