EP.TU.160Does a foundation interim year one post improve confidence in the care of the dying of general surgical patients in a tertiary centre?

Abstract

Abstract Aims 1. Understand the confidence levels of current foundation year one (FY1) doctors. 2. Understand whether an interim foundation year one (FiY1) post improves confidence. Methods FY1s were surveyed throughout August – December 2020. Six questions used Likert scales (1 to 5: not at all confident to very confident) over some common palliative care themes. Data was initially inputted using Google Docs and analysed in Microsoft Excel. Results 26.7% (28/105) of FY1s completed the survey. 28.6% (8/28) did not undertake a FiY1 post and 71.4% (20/28) did. Confidence levels were higher for FY1s who did have a FiY1 post compared to those that did not in managing pain control, psychological distress, spiritual health, speaking to family and the patient in the last days of life. Confidence levels were similar for all FY1s for dealing with social issues. Conclusions FY1s who have had a FiY1 post in a tertiary centre have more confidence in most areas but not all. This data shows the value of the FiY1 post however work needs to be done to improve the experience to the role.