Clinical exposure and organization of the Critical Care rotation during the Hajj periods in 1434-1435; perspectives of Arabian Saudi Anesthesiology Program Residents.

Background: Background: The nature of massive mass gathering during Hajj was expected to provide a challenging and stimulating working experience for anesthesiology training program residents. An new rotation arrangement was reached between the Ministry of Health and the Saudi Commission of Health Specialties to recruit anesthesia resident to provide critical care services during the Hajj seasons in 1434 and 1435.

Objectives: This study aimed to explore the perspectives of anesthesia residents on their experience working among critical care teams during Hajj seasons in 1434H and 1435H at various locations of Makkah city and Al-Mashaer.

Subjects and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire distributed to all residents (n = 35) enrolled in anesthesia residency training program of the SCFHS and participated in critical care areas as locum during the Hajj seasons of 1434H and 1435H. Data was analyzed by using the statistical package of social science.

Results: The mean score of residents agreement on being treated with respect from both nurses and administration was the highest among the surveyed item (6.13 and 6.22 respectively). It was observed that, satisfaction of the residents with the direct observations and feedback provided to them (p = 0.01), the adequacy of the services components (p = 0.01) being treated with respect by the senior doctors and nurses (p = 0.03, p = 0.002) was significantly increased in the year 1435 compared to that of the year 1434. The satisfaction was generally higher in Makkah hospitals when compared to that of Al-Mashaer (Arafat and Menna) hospitals although this difference was of no statistical significance.

Conclusion: Hajj critical care rotations in 1434 and 1435 were well perceived by anesthesia residents. They found them useful as they give them the chance to gain self-confidence and experience the provision of healthcare services for mass gathering sessions.