Postgraduate medical procedural skills: attainment of curricular competencies using enhanced simulation-based mastery learning at a novel national boot camp.

INTRODUCTION: A new UK medical postgraduate curriculum prompted the creation of a novel national medical postgraduate 'boot camp'. An enhanced simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) methodology was created to deliver procedural skills teaching within this national boot camp. This study aimed to explore the impact of SBML in a UK medical boot camp.
METHODS: One-hundred and two Scottish medical trainees attended a 3-day boot camp starting in August 2019. The novel enhanced SBML pathway entailed online pre-learning resources, deliberate practice, and simulation assessment and feedback. Data were gathered via pre- and post-boot camp questionnaires and assessment checklists.
RESULTS: The vast majority of learners achieved the required standard of performance. Learners reported increased skill confidence levels, including skills not performed at the boot camp.
CONCLUSION: An enhanced SBML methodology in a boot camp model enabled streamlined, standardised procedural skill teaching to a national cohort of junior doctors. Training curricular competencies were achieved alongside increased skill confidence. © Royal College of Physicians 2022. All rights reserved.