EP.TU.569Improving Confidence and Technique When Preparing Nipple Smears for Cytology

Abstract

Abstract Aims To create a sustainable means of educating breast surgeons on how to prepare nipple smears for cytology when investigating nipple discharge. Methods A nation-wide questionnaire of 51 doctors conducted in 2020 identified low confidence and competency in preparing a nipple smear slide. A 3-minute training video was subsequently created and published to the Association of Breast Surgery (ABS) website for universal access. Doctors were prompted to complete a questionnaire after watching the video to assess understanding, confidence, and obtain video feedback. Results were collected and analysed using Qualtrics software. Results 31 doctors completed the survey (10% foundation doctors, 77% specialist trainees, 13% consultants). The mean±StD nipple smears prepared per year was 1.74±0.95. The percentage of doctors who felt confident in their technique increased from 44% to 100%. Ninety-seven per cent correctly identified how to store and label the sample, previously 45%. The percentage of doctors aware of where to place the sample on the slide increased from 37% to 100%. Eighty-seven per cent were aware of the optimal fluid volume in comparison to 10% previously. All respondents felt the video was valuable and 71% of respondents indicated they would also benefit from a written list of instructions. Conclusions The preparation of nipple smear slides has historically been an area of clinical uncertainty. An educational video was successfully created to educate all grades of doctors and made universally accessible through the ABS website.