Effect of a Formal Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology Curriculum on Obstetrics and Gynecology Residents. (October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Palaszewski, Dawn M.; Miladinovic, Branko; Caselnova, Petra M.; Holmström, Shelly W.
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 126(2015)Supplement 4
• Publication Date: 2015-10
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000472145.63770.59
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : APGO Advisor: : John L. Dalrymple, MD PURPOSE: To determine the effectiveness of a new formal Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG) curriculum for improving obstetrics and gynecology resident knowledge and comfort level in patient management. BACKGROUND: Historically, less focus has been given to PAG among obstetrics and gynecology residency programs. However, the Council on Resident Education in Obstetrics and Gynecology identifies PAG as part of the core curriculum and proficiency is tested on exams and with real patients. METHODS: A formal PAG curriculum was implemented for the obstetrics and gynecology residents (n=20) at the University of South Florida. The curriculum consisted of lectures, PAG clinic, American Society of Reproductive Medicine online modules, and pediatric gynecology patient simulation. Before and after the curriculum residents (postgraduate year [PGY]-1–5) completed a survey assessing their comfort level and a knowledge quiz consisting of 20 case-based questions. Statistical analysis using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was performed. RESULTS: Only 25–40% of residents completed any individual quiz or survey and results were anonymous except for PGY of the resident. Sample size was too small to detect differences according to PGY of the residents. After the curriculum, a significant increase in comfort level examining the genitals of a pediatric gynecology patient (median difference [MD] 1.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34–2.66; P =.003) and increased comfort on history taking, physical examination skills, and management (MD 1, 95% CI 0.23–1.77; P =.002) were observed compared with before the curriculum. There was no significant difference in overall quiz score. DISCUSSION: A formal curriculum in PAG did improve resident comfort level in managing these patients, but did not significantly improve knowledge.