Can new doctors be prepared for practice? A review. (June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cameron, Alexander; Millar, James; Szmidt, Natasha; Hanlon, Katie; Cleland, Jennifer
• Is Part Of: Clinical teacher. Volume 11:Number 3(2014)
• Page Start: 188
• Page End: 192
• Publication Date: 2014-06
• Subjects: Medical education -- Periodicals; Medical education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 610.711
• DOI: 10.1111/tct.12127
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1743-4971

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main" id="tct12127-abs-0001"> <title>Summary</title> <sec id="tct12127-sec-0001" sec-type="section"> <title>Background</title> <p>The transition from medical student to junior doctor is an important period of change. Research shows junior doctors often experience high levels of stress, and consequently burnout. Understanding how to prepare for the transition may allow individuals who are likely to struggle to be identified and assisted. The aim of this paper is to systematically review the literature on preparedness for practice in newly qualified junior doctors.</p> </sec> <sec id="tct12127-sec-0002" sec-type="section"> <title>Methods</title> <p>This was a systematic review of literature concerning the transition from student to junior doctor, published in the last 10 years, and that measured or explored one or more factors affecting preparedness.</p> </sec> <sec id="tct12127-sec-0003" sec-type="section"> <title>Results</title> <p>Nine papers were included in this review. These varied in design and methodological quality. Most used survey methodology (<italic>n</italic> = 7). Six found knowledge and skills, particularly deficiencies in prescribing and practical procedures, relevant in terms of preparedness. Five looked at personal traits, with high levels of neuroticism and low confidence deemed to be important. Medical school and workplace factors, including early clinical experience and shadowing, positively affected preparedness. A lack of senior support proved detrimental. The influence of demographics was inconclusive.</p> </sec> <sec id="tct12127-sec-0004" sec-type="section"> <title>Discussion</title> <p>The studies reviewed indicate that both personal and organisational factors are pertinent to managing the transition from student to junior doctor. Further prospective studies, both qualitative and quantitative, drawing on theories of change, are required to identify what precise factors would make a difference to this transition.</p> </sec> </abstract>