Arielle Cantor1, Catherine Flood2, Savanna Boutin3, Shauna Regan3, Sue Ross4. 1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB. 2. Division of Urogynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lois Hole Hospital for Women, Edmonton, AB. Electronic address: cathyflood@mac.com. 3. Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB. 4. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Women and Children's Health Research Institute, Lois Hole Hospital for Women, Edmonton, AB.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Studies from disciplines outside gynaecology have found that most patients do not understand the clinical responsibilities allocated to physicians-in-training. No research on this topic has been published in gynaecology, despite litigation against gynaecological surgeons regarding the role of residents in surgery. The goal of this research was to explore what gynaecological surgery patients understand about the role of resident doctors. METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to female patients in gynaecological surgery pre-admission clinics in Edmonton, Alberta. Surveys included knowledge and opinion statements about residents' duties. Anonymous responses were entered into a secure database. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the results. RESULTS: Of 108 participants, 83% understood that residents had a higher level of training than medical students, yet 40% were unsure whether residents were doctors. Almost one half (43%) of participants were uncertain whether residents required supervision, including while operating (20%). Most (92%) believed it was important to know their physician's level of training, yet only 63% reported knowing this information. Only 50% of participants would be comfortable with residents operating on them under supervision. A considerable number (56%) wanted to learn more about residents' roles. CONCLUSION: Patients do not fully understand the role of residents, and many are uncomfortable with trainees operating on them under supervision. Considering the significant role of residents in patient care, educating patients is essential to improve their comfort and the overall consent process.
OBJECTIVE: Studies from disciplines outside gynaecology have found that most patients do not understand the clinical responsibilities allocated to physicians-in-training. No research on this topic has been published in gynaecology, despite litigation against gynaecological surgeons regarding the role of residents in surgery. The goal of this research was to explore what gynaecological surgery patients understand about the role of resident doctors. METHODS: A questionnaire was distributed to female patients in gynaecological surgery pre-admission clinics in Edmonton, Alberta. Surveys included knowledge and opinion statements about residents' duties. Anonymous responses were entered into a secure database. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the results. RESULTS: Of 108 participants, 83% understood that residents had a higher level of training than medical students, yet 40% were unsure whether residents were doctors. Almost one half (43%) of participants were uncertain whether residents required supervision, including while operating (20%). Most (92%) believed it was important to know their physician's level of training, yet only 63% reported knowing this information. Only 50% of participants would be comfortable with residents operating on them under supervision. A considerable number (56%) wanted to learn more about residents' roles. CONCLUSION:Patients do not fully understand the role of residents, and many are uncomfortable with trainees operating on them under supervision. Considering the significant role of residents in patient care, educating patients is essential to improve their comfort and the overall consent process.
Authors: Rebecca Craig-Schapiro; Sandra R DiBrito; Heidi N Overton; James P Taylor; Ryan B Fransman; Elliott R Haut; Bethany C Sacks Journal: Am J Surg Date: 2018-08-27 Impact factor: 2.565
Authors: Benjamin E Zuchelkowski; Soukaina Eljamri; Jill E McDonnell; Bhavya Varma; Natalie G Stern; Scott D Rothenberger; Kavita Shah Arora; Judy C Chang Journal: J Surg Educ Date: 2022-01-17 Impact factor: 3.524