Resident Selection: The Role of Assessment of Emotional Intelligence and Grit

Summary Matching into plastic and reconstructive surgery residency, whether integrated or independent, is a competitive process. This article serves to examine, review, and summarize data published on both residency application processes. Through the results summarized, applicants should carefully review the objective and subjective factors used in evaluation to strategize how to make themselves as competitive as possible. Specifically, though, early review of the data presented may allow applicants time to focus on what modifiable factors still remain before their respective application seasons.

Section: What Program Directors Look Formentioning

confidence: 99%

Matching into Plastic Surgery: Insights into the Data

Sarac

Janis

2022

“…A more holistic approach, which takes into consideration not only the objective criteria of applicants, but also the grit, interpersonal skills, and teamwork, may improve the diversity of the field. 47 Increasing the number of evaluators and potential applicants of minority groups (eg, the “Rooney Rule”), and utilizing structured interviews may decrease selection bias. 30 Although the impact of these actions still needs to be addressed, these proposed actions may help decrease the inequalities and increase opportunities for minorities in plastic surgery.…”

Section: Holistic Selection Processesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Assessing the Prevalence of Microaggressions in Plastic Surgery Training: A National Survey

Goulart

Huayllani

Samora

et al. 2021

Background: There has been increased awareness of microaggressions occurring during medical training. However, the prevalence and characteristics of microaggressions specifically in plastic surgery residency remain unknown. We aimed to fill this literature gap by conducting a nationwide survey to better understand and characterize microaggressions in plastic surgery training. Methods: A survey was distributed between March and May 2021 via the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Resident Representatives to 1014 integrated and 214 independent track plastic surgery trainees in the United States. Multiple Pearson’s chi-square of independence and Fisher exact tests evaluated comparisons of microaggressions by sex, race, Hispanic origin, sexual orientation, and year in training. A multivariate regression analysis assessed associations between variables. Results: One hundred twenty-five participants responded to the survey (response rate: 10.2%). Of those who responded, 68.8% had experienced microaggressions in the past year. Female trainees experienced microaggressions more frequently than male trainees ( P < 0.05). Asian trainees had higher odds to be a target of microaggressions compared with White trainees ( P = 0.013). Nonheterosexual trainees were more likely to have experienced microaggressions compared with heterosexual trainees ( P < 0.05). Independent trainees were more likely to experience microaggressions than PGY 1–2 and 3–4 integrated residents ( P < 0.05). Conclusions: Approximately seven in every 10 trainees stated that they experienced microaggressions in the past year. Females, racial minorities, sexual minorities, and independent trainees had higher odds of reporting that they experienced microaggressions. Further studies are needed to assess the implementation of strategies that address this problem to resolve inequities.

“…Intrinsic qualities include characteristics and traits such as reliability, trustworthiness, and grit. 4 Extrinsic factors involve mentorship, networking, and advocacy from existing leaders. 5 For trainees motivated to perform at the top of their abilities throughout residency, knowledge of specific qualities they must develop and demonstrate at each stage can propel them towards future achievement.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Demonstrating Excellence in Plastic Surgery Residency

Hackenberger

Janis

2022

Background: Residents can achieve distinction by discerning which areas of achievement are worth additional focus at each stage in training. Our survey examines the perspectives of faculty members affiliated with Accreditation Council for Graduation Medical Education-accredited plastic surgery residency programs regarding qualities indicative of resident excellence. Methods: A survey including Likert scales and rank-ordering was distributed to plastic surgery program directors and faculty with the intent to assess perspectives regarding resident excellence at each stage of training. Responses were analyzed using marginal homogeneity tests and summary tables. Results: In total, 90 respondents completed the survey. An estimated 94.5% believe it is possible for residents to achieve excellence at any stage of clinical training, and 87.7% report their definition of excellence differs by training level. Top three metrics indicative of resident excellence for interns and junior residents were preparation for operative cases, bedside manner, and personality. For seniors: preparation for operative cases, leadership capability, and bedside manner. For chief residents: preparation for operative cases, leadership capability, and technical operative expertise. Conclusions: A resident who displays excellence inspires mentorship, which can propel future career success. Faculty agree excellence can be achieved by residents of any stage, although the qualities that define this evolve by training year. Preparation for operative cases is considered a critical component of resident performance at all levels. Bedside manner and personality are ways intern and junior level residents excel, whereas leadership ability and technical expertise in the operating room become significant in senior and chief trainees.