837 Clinical assessment of emotions in Tunisian residents in gynaecology during oncological surgery

Introduction/Background Oncological surgeries in Gynaecology are often complicated and multidisciplinary. The emotions experienced by residents in Gynaecology during oncological surgeries can affect, positively or negatively, the learning process. We aimed to measure the emotional load before and after oncological surgery in gynaecology during the residency training. Methodology Prospective, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out over 2 months, from 1st of August 2023 to 30th of September 2023. This study included tunisian residents in Gynaecology. Baseline social phobia was investigated using the Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale. Emotional load was assessed by physiological parameters and by a self-assessment questionnaire validated before and after the oncological surgeries. Cognitive load was measured at the end of the surgical procedure. Results We included 310 residents in Gynaecology aged 26 to 30 with a M/F gender ratio of 0.19. Previous oncological surgery experience was found in 74% of the residents. Among them, 20% had a social phobia at baseline. Clinical emotional assessment before the surgery found tachycardia (69%) and/or hypertension (17%). The emotion items dealing with anxiety (Tense/Calm, Nervous/Relaxed, and Stressed/Serene) were negative prior to the surgery. There was no correlation between the pre-surgical procedure anxiety items and social phobia, neither with gender nor with previous experience. A non-significant improvement in anxiety levels was noted at the end of the surgery. The mean of the mood items (Sad/High and Demoralized/Exhilarated) was positive before and after the surgery. The adrenergic response to this anxiety state was significantly lower at the end of the surgery. Cognitive load was rated high by all participants at the end of the surgery. Conclusion During an oncological surgery in gynaecology, the emotional load is marked by significant anxiety and is accompanied by significant adrenergic response. It is independent of pre-existing social phobia. Cognitive load is high. Disclosures We declare that we have no conflicts of interest.