A Mixed-Methods Analysis of a Novel Mistreatment Program for the Surgery Core Clerkship. (July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lau, James N.; Mazer, Laura M.; Liebert, Cara A.; Bereknyei Merrell, Sylvia; Lin, Dana T.; Harris, Ilene
• Is Part Of: Academic medicine. Volume 92:Number 7(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-07
• Subjects: Medical education -- Periodicals; Medical policy -- Periodicals; Medical personnel -- Periodicals; Periodicals; 610.711
• DOI: 10.1097/ACM.0000000000001575
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-2446

Abstract

Abstract : Purpose: To review mistreatment reports from before and after implementation of a mistreatment program, and student ratings of and qualitative responses to the program to evaluate the short-term impact on students. Method: In January 2014, a video- and discussion-based mistreatment program was implemented for the surgery clerkship at the Stanford University School of Medicine. The program aims to help students establish expectations for the learning environment; create a shared and personal definition of mistreatment; and promote advocacy and empower ment to address mistreatment. Counts and types of mistreatment were compared from a year before (January–December 2013) and two years after (January 2014–December 2015) implementation. Students' end-of-clerkship ratings and responses to open-ended questions were analyzed. Results: From March 2014–December 2015, 141/164 (86%) students completed ratings, and all 47 (100%) students enrolled from January–August 2014 provided qualitative program evaluations. Most students rated the initial (108/141 [77%]) and final (120/141 [85%]) sessions as excellent or outstanding. In the qualitative analysis, students valued that the program helped establish expectations; allowed for sharing experiences; provided formal resources; and provided a supportive environment. Students felt the learning environment and culture were improved and reported increased interest in surgery. There were 14 mistreatment reports the year before the program, 9 in the program's first year, and 4 in the second year. Conclusions: The authors found a rotation-specific mistreatment program, focused on creating shared understanding about mistreatment, was well received among surgery clerkship students, and the number of mistreatment reports decreased each year following implementation. Abstract : Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.