Transition of new dental graduates into practice: a qualitative study

Abstract

This study provides an insight into experience of a mentored year for new dental graduates in general practice settings. Foundation training provides a structured introduction into general practice and serves as a safety net before new graduates gain further independence in clinical practice.

Conceptual Framework Explaining “Preparedness for Practice” of Dental Graduates: A Systematic Review

“…Among the three articles that used qualitative methods, only one had unpacked the construct of preparedness through an exploratory study of stakeholders including students, academics, foundation dental practitioners, trainers, general practitioners, and a postgraduate deanery representative. [21][22][23] Most of the articles described the structure of the tools used to assess preparedness in adequate detail. However, four of the articles that used quantitative approaches did not mention the source of the tools used.…”

“…This domain emerged from all the articles reviewed. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15][16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23] It may be defined as a combination of adequate theoretical and practical knowledge for routine patient management; adequate practical experience in using the knowledge and skills in patient management; adequate knowledge to identify medical emergencies in routine practice; and the necessary skills to manage medical emergencies.…”

“…All the articles except two discussed this domain. [8][9][10][11][12][13][14][16][17][18][20][21][22][23] The definition included the ability for effective and sensitive communication with patients, supporting staff members, colleagues from one's team, colleagues who worked outside of one's team, and the general public.…”

Self‐perceived preparedness of final year dental students in a developing country—A multi‐institution study

“…The ultimate goal of education and training of undergraduate dental students is to impart the knowledge, skills and attitudes to prepare them for independent clinical practice in a safe and effective manner. [1][2][3] Dental students are expected to demonstrate competence in range of clinical operative procedures as well as skills in communication, team-working, management, leadership and professionalism.…”

Reflections on the encouragement of altruism in dental education

“…uncovered the attitudes of recent dental graduates: “I think, four years of dental school could fit into a week at practice. Yeah it's incredible to think how quickly you learn once you get into practice as opposed to the time spent in training.” A newly graduated dental professional would not be expected to have the same competency in a clinical sense as that of a dental professional with 40 years of experience; providing a reasonable standard, as would be judged by one's peers, is achieved there is likely to be of no criticism. We accept this paradigm clinically, but we would not accept this in terms of professionalism.…”