National study of resident physicians suggests need for federal work hour guideline changes

More experience on the job does not protect resident physicians or their patients from the increased safety risks associated with long work weeks and extended-duration work shifts, according to a new study led by investigators from Brigham and Women’s Hospital. To date, nationwide work hour guidelines in the United States have largely focused on resident physicians in their first year of residency (known as PGY1), omitting more experienced resident physicians in their second year (PGY2) or beyond (PGY2+).