Journal of surgical education
-
Randomized Controlled Trial
Objective assessment of training surgical skills using simulated tissue interface with real-time feedback.
We have shown previously that achieving competent performance of basic laparoscopic skills is possible in difficult conditions. We hypothesize that real-time performance feedback adds to the quality of proficiency-based simulator training for performance and forces applied to conventional surgical tools while tying square knots and running suture throws. ⋯ Inclusion of real-time objective assessment in evaluation of surgical skills minimizes subjective evaluation of performance capabilities. A direct correlation between real-time feedback regarding force exerted and extent of surgical task completion was noted.
-
The pressure to implement cultural-competency training at the level of GME is high. The rapidly diversifying American population and the ACGME demand it, and cultural competency is recognized as a core competency under "Professionalism." ⋯ Surgery residents tested for 3 aspects of cultural competence prior to and after teaching sessions showed marked improvement on all 3 assessment measures after this brief intervention.
-
Despite the importance of preclerkship experiences, surgical education has essentially remained confined to the third-year operating room experience. According to experience-based learning theory, the acquisition of new clinical knowledge is a dynamic process of social enculturation and professional identity development that requires active participation, clinical applicability, and direct interaction with doctors and other members of the medical team. In conjunction with a previously described surgical skills elective, we created a new clinical elective in which preclerkship medical students were assigned a surgical mentor and invited into the operating room to assist in surgeries. ⋯ Early surgical exposure is critical for attracting student interest in careers in surgery. We believe that these early clinical experiences, combined with strong mentorship from the surgical faculty, will eventually lead to greater success during clerkships and greater interest in surgery as a career.