SAFE-AR (Sleep And Fatigue Evaluation in Anaesthetic Residents) is a SWARM-sponsored research programme led by anaesthetic residents, for anaesthetic residents. The study aims to quantify the prevalence of fatigue within UK anaesthetic training and to better understand its impact on trainee wellbeing, cognitive performance, and patient safety.

Despite widespread recognition that fatigue affects clinical performance, there is limited high-quality, trainee-led data describing its real-world impact in anaesthesia. SAFE-AR seeks to address this gap using a structured, multi-phase approach combining subjective and objective measures of fatigue.

By being designed and delivered by trainees, the study is grounded in the realities of modern anaesthetic training. Its findings will inform future education, workforce planning, and fatigue risk management strategies within anaesthesia and the wider NHS. Phase 2 of SAFE-AR is due for recruitment and roll out early Summer 2026.

For any more information, please contact Dr Daniel Butler: daniel.butler@nhs.net