Prevalence and Experience of Stress During Undergraduate Medical Internship: A Mixed-Methods Study at a University in Mexico City

Abstract

Introduction: Among healthcare professionals, it requires special attention due to the nature of medical care. During undergraduate medical internships, stress can reach even greater levels.

Method: A mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) study was conducted, in which a survey was applied to assess stress levels in a non-probabilistic sample, and a semi-structured interview guide was used with a focus group of undergraduate medical interns. Data obtained from the survey were processed using SPSS software to calculate prevalence rates, associations, and statistical significance (OR and χ²). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using content analysis.

Results: High stress prevalence rates were found, both for general stress (90%) and its different levels (mild 18%, moderate 40%, high 24%, and severe 7%). Significant associations were found between mild stress levels and living alone (OR=1.9), moderate stress levels and gender differences (OR=1.8), and high/severe stress levels with a family history (OR=2.1) or personal history (OR=4.3) of mental illness (OR=4.5, OR=6.3, respectively). Qualitative data revealed an experience characterized by high expectations, frustration, and feelings of devaluation. Identified causes included competition, power dynamics, excessive workloads, bureaucracy, and punitive measures. In the case of women, harassment was an additional factor.

Conclusions: The experience of medical stress combines vulnerability with the demands of medical training and hospital work. It is experienced differently by men and women, with implications for health and the quality of patient care.