Pelvic Exam Simulation Integration into OB/GYN Medical Student Clerkship Curriculum Improves Student Confidence [27S

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study is to examine the impact on medical student confidence with a pelvic exam by integrating a new simulation curriculum into the orientation day of their OB/GYN clerkship rotation. METHODS: A pelvic exam simulation was integrated into an established orientation day at the beginning of the OB/GYN clerkship. This included direct education by a physician trained in pelvic examinations on two high-fidelity pelvic simulators and guided pelvic exams on standardized patients. Online surveys were distributed before the orientation day (pre-clerkship), at the end of the orientation day (post-simulation), and at the conclusion of the clinical rotation (post-clerkship). IRB approval was obtained. RESULTS: At the end of the rotation 80% of the students were no nervous about performing a pelvic exam versus 25% pre-clerkship. 3% of students felt confident performing a pelvic exam before orientation versus 56% after simulation and 62% after the clerkship. When asked if the simulation experience enhanced their understanding of the female reproductive system, 95% of students answered positively. CONCLUSION: We found increased medical student confidence and less anxiety about performing a pelvic exam after the integration of a simulation experience in the clerkship orientation day. The students also expressed increased satisfaction with the modification in curriculum. By removing a large barrier that often exists in the learning process of this sensitive but extremely important clinical skill, medical students may be able to more fully participate in their OB/GYN clerkship and bring these feelings of confidence and skill into their chosen specialty.