Improving knowledge and confidence in foundation doctors during specialty changeover

AbstractQuality problemFoundation year junior doctors rotate every 4 months into different specialties. They are often expected to manage patients with complex underlying conditions despite inadequate clinical induction.Initial assessmentNo structured induction was offered to junior doctors rotating to hepato-pancreatico-biliary surgery, a complex and highly specialized discipline within general surgery. We hypothesized that junior doctors will be lacking in both knowledge and confidence when managing these patients.Choice of solutionCreate a structured induction programme and evaluate its effectiveness in improving knowledge and confidence amongst doctors.ImplementationPlan Do Study Act methodology was used along with driver diagrams to map change. A learning resource was developed in the form of a booklet, which included relevant clinical information, processes for escalation and referral as well as guidance for managing acutely unwell patients. A structured 1-hour teaching programme was delivered to junior doctors alongside this. Pre- and post-session questionnaires and statistical analysis were used to determine effect.EvaluationMarked improvements in both knowledge and confidence were seen. The intervention showed a statistically significant improvement.Lessons learnedClinical induction resources can improve junior doctors ’ knowledge and confidence in managing their patients. Such induction is both valuable and necessary. Similar interventions can be used with allied ...
Source: International Journal for Quality in Health Care - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: research