Validation of a questionnaire exploring patient attitudes towards bedside teaching

Abstract

Background Bedside teaching (BST) facilitates medical education and has reduced in practice, often due to patient-related concerns. This study aimed to validate a questionnaire exploring patients attitudes towards BST. Methods International guidelines for questionnaire development were followed. Seven steps were included: literature review, patient interviews, development of clear and understandable items, expert validation, cognitive interviewing and pilot testing. Statistical analyses included exploratory factor analysis, internal consistency, investigation of demographic influences and discriminant validity across subscales. Results Following the literature review, 32 interviews were conducted. Potential items were developed, reviewed and adapted. Experts in medical education and statistics reviewed the draft questionnaire. Fifteen patients consented to cognitive testing and 401 consenting patients completed the final version. The median age of participants was 35 years of age (range: 18 to 70 years). Participants included women attending for antenatal (40%), postnatal (32%) and gynaecology issues (28%). Just under one third (29%) had taken part in medical student teaching previously. Statistical analyses found a two-factor solution, consisting of Educate medical professionals and Conditions for participation subscales with good internal consistency; responses did not vary by age or education. Participants who had opted-in for teaching in the ward and bedside endorsed higher levels of Educate medical professionals, suggesting discriminant validity. A majority of patients (> 92%) reported that they were happy to be involved in BST. Patients believed that they should not be asked to participate in BST should they feel stressed or unwell (68.2%). Conclusion This study shows extensive patient support for BST, independent of age or education. The desire to educate is a strong motivating factor. This strong support by patients for BST is an area that medical schools and universities can potentially develop. Future versions of this questionnaire may include virtual bedside teaching, in the context of social distancing.

Obstetrics and gynecology patients’ perceptions about bedside teaching at a Saudi teaching hospital

“…The study utilized a validated online questionnaire which was developed based on the Association of Medical Education in Europe guidelines[ 15 ] and adopted by a previous study. [ 16 ] Permission to use the tool was granted by Carey et al . [ 16 ] The survey consisted of 25 items in two main sections.…”

“…[ 16 ] Permission to use the tool was granted by Carey et al . [ 16 ] The survey consisted of 25 items in two main sections. The first section comprised nine items on the patient’s sociodemographic and personal data, including age, nationality, education level, place of residence, marital status, level of income, clinical setting of care (clinic/ward), the reason for attending the hospital, and previous participation in BST.…”

Demise of Clinical Methods: A Challenge for the Next Generation

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