Simulation-based teaching: an effective modality for providing UK foundation doctors with core ENT skills training

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an ENT simulation course for equipping foundation doctors with core ENT skills in preparation for an ENT senior house officer post. Method A total of 41 foundation doctors in the East of England participated in our two-part simulation course. Pre- and post-course surveys, consisting of Likert scales and a Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure, were sent to assess confidence in core ENT skills and acceptability of course format. Results Post-simulation, confidence improved in all core ENT skills taught (p < 0.001), along with confidence and preparedness to work as an ENT senior house officer (p < 0.001). Overall course median Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure score was 48, and 100 per cent of participants would recommend this course to colleagues. Conclusion Simulation improves foundation doctors’ confidence in core ENT skills and increases preparedness for working as an ENT senior house officer. Guidance on core ENT skills requirements should be made available to improve uniformity amongst ENT simulation courses.

Preparing juniors for on-call ENT, handicap in vestibular schwannoma, nasal packs in epistaxis and sleep apnoea in young children

“…It is helpful for educational supervisors and course planners to know that the ever popular labour-intensive, practically based, peer-led, simulation-assisted and effective 'boot camp' approach to induction is well supported by this study and has been the topic of previous favourable Journal of Laryngology & Otology articles. 5,6 This issue's paper of the month is from Brighton, Salford and Cambridge (UK) where the researchers looked at groups of vestibular-schwannoma (acoustic-neuroma) patients from Salford and Cambridge who were being monitored over time for their tumours. 7 They evaluated the patients' handicaps using a validated quality of life measure (audiovestibular handicap questionnaire) sequentially over time.…”

“…It is helpful for educational supervisors and course planners to know that the ever popular labour-intensive, practically based, peer-led, simulation-assisted and effective ‘boot camp’ approach to induction is well supported by this study and has been the topic of previous favourable Journal of Laryngology & Otology articles. 5,6…”