How many is too many? Using cognitive load theory to determine the maximum safe number of inpatient consultations for trainees.

Interruptions and distractions increase cognitive load, raising the risk of errors. In this study, internal medicine and psychiatry residents and fellows responded to four questions designed to assess their cognitive load during and after inpatient consultations. After four consultations in one shift, trainees agreed or strongly agreed that interruptions, emotions, extraneous information, and technology were distracting.