'FIKA BREAKS' IN THE NEUROANESTHESIA: ENHANCING WELL-BEING AND PERFORMANCE- A NARRATIVE REVIEW.

Abstract

Neuroanesthesia, which involves high-risk neurosurgery, requires constant attention, mental clarity, and emotional strength. This leads to significant rates of burnout (50–70%) and fatigue-related dangers among staff.  The Swedish fika break, a planned 15–30-minute respite for coffee, tea, snacks, and social engagement, corresponds with evidence-based fatigue management measures, while not specifically identified in neuroanesthesia research.  Fika, based on research in anesthesiology and emergency medicine, lowers cognitive fatigue (for example, it raises Karolinska Sleepiness Scale scores from 5.5 to 4.6), helps prevent burnout by providing peer support, eases musculoskeletal strain, and improves team cohesion, which is important for communication in the operating room.  Two daily fika breaks are possible between cases, using hospital break rooms and snacks that are appropriate for the culture.  Although research specifically focused on neuroanesthesia is necessary, fika's affordability and flexibility make it a vital intervention for promoting staff well-being, minimizing errors, and improving patient safety in this demanding sector.

Keywords: Fika breaks, Neuroanesthesia, Fatigue management, Burnout prevention, Cognitive alertness.