What do you do when you don't know what to do? GP associates in training (AiT) and their experiences of uncertainty.

Although study courses for AiTs commonly include sessions on the clinical evidence base and the consultation skills needed to manage uncertainty, there is little published about understanding AiTs' experiences of uncertainty and the coping strategies they currently use. This study explored in AiT focus groups the question 'what do you do when you don't know what to do?' Thematic analysis revealed that uncertainly was a common and difficult experience, occurring in a variety of clinical circumstances. We were able to identify both functional and dysfunctional strategies that trainees use in dealing with uncertainty. The resulting classification of uncertainty into the areas of analysing, negotiating, networking and team-working has implications for training, which are discussed.