Pediatric Residents’ Perceptions of Family-Centered Rounds as Part of Postgraduate Training

Abstract

Although family-centered rounds (FCRs) are recommended as standard practice, limited data address pediatric residents' opinions of FCRs. In the present study, we assessed residents' perceptions with respect to rounding experience and postgraduate year (PGY). An anonymous online questionnaire was distributed to pediatric residents from nine accredited programs in New Jersey. Of 95 residents who completed questionnaires, 69.5% participated in FCRs and traditional rounds, 17.9% in FCRs, and 12.6% in traditional rounds. Irrespective of rounding experience and PGY, the majority believed that FCRs benefit families and pediatric training, felt that an attending's style greatly affects their experience, report discomfort sharing sensitive information and answering questions, and did not support the superiority of FCRs for efficiency and professional satisfaction. Concerns regarding discomfort, attending approach and efficiency are potential barriers to residents' full acceptance of FCRs that should be addressed to improve the efficacy of postgraduate pediatric training.