Abstract
BackgroundDuring their medical training, medical students aim to master communication skills and professionalism competencies to foster the best possible patient-physician relationship. This is especially evident when dealing with sensitive topics. This study describes and analyses the outcomes of a simulation-based training module on clinical communication competency through interacting with simulated intimate partner violence (IPV) survivors. The training was set up as part of a broader IPV module within a Gynaecology and Obstetrics Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery of Medicine (MBBS).MethodsIn total, 34 (59%) of all fourth-year medical students from one medical school in Mozambique were involved. A mixed-method approach was adopted. First, a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design was adopted to study the impact of the intervention to tackle critical IPV knowledge, skills, and attitudes, underlying a patient communication script. Second, a qualitative analysis of student perceptions was carried out.ResultsThe results of the paired sample t-tests point at a significant and positive change in post-test values when looking at the general IPV self-efficacy (IPV SE) score and the subscales mainly in attitudes. Participants expressed a desire for additional IPV communication competency and suggested enhancements to the module.ConclusionWe conclude that due to IPV being a sensitive issue, simulation activities are a good method to be used in a safe environment to develop clinical skills. The results of this study are a good complement of the analysis of the competencies learned by the medical students in Mozambique with the current curriculum.
Highlights
During their medical training, medical students aim to master communication skills and professionalism competencies to foster the best possible patient-physician relationship
Changes in students’ intimate partner violence (IPV) Intimate partner violence self-efficacy scale (SE) The results of the paired sample t-tests point at a significant and positive change in post-test values when looking at the general IPV self-efficacy (IPV SE) score and the subscales: IPV SE Knowledge (t (31.28) = 7.27, p < .01); IPV SE Skills (t (19.46) = 5.60, p < .01); IPV SE Attitudes (t (30.28) = 5.97, p < .01); general IPV SE (t (28.19 = 7.67, p < .01)
Of the great importance it has for the undergraduate Medicine training, a subject or module that teaches students and future physicians, how to deal with a patient suffering from IPV
Summary
Medical students aim to master communication skills and professionalism competencies to foster the best possible patient-physician relationship. This is especially evident when dealing with sensitive topics. Intimate partner violence (IPV) is considered a complex topic and many physicians avoid addressing it [4,5,6]. It is sensitive for both physicians and survivors with challenges occurring mainly during screening and referrals. Victims may feel uncomfortable sharing information about their relationships and be reluctant to disclose IPV [7,8,9]
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