Improving the Neurological Exam Skills of Medical Students

Abstract

Determine if distributed practice of of neurological exam (NE) skills in first year medical school produces sustained improvements in the skills of second year students. A prospective, controlled, non-blinded study conducted at McGill University (class size = 180 students). Expanded teaching of muscle stretch reflexes was provided to first year medical students. A structured examination of muscle stretch reflexes (max score = 100) was administered in second year medical school after a required two week rotation in Neurology. Results for class A (received the intervention in first year) were compared to the results for the preceding class B (had not received the intervention). 77 of 177 (44%) eligible in class A and 69 of 166 (42%) eligible students in class B participated. Results were analyzed separately for each of the two examiners. Mean (SD) scores were 95.2 (5.6) for class A (intervention) and 81.7 (11.1) for class B (control) for the first examiner and 90.4 (8.2) for class A and 83.8 (11.7) for class B for the second examiner. Results were statistically significant (Mann-Whitney test z = 5.27, p<0.0001 first examiner and z = 2.67, p<0.0038 second examiner). Distributed practice of muscle stretch reflexes during first year medical school results in improved performance by second year medical students after their mandatory clinical rotation in neurology, even when examined up to 14 months after the intervention. This finding has implications for the teaching of the NE.