WP6.5 - Setting Up For Success: Supporting New General Surgical Registrars' Non-Operative Technical Skills Development

Abstract

Abstract Aim Entry into Higher Surgical Training is associated with new challenges to trainees’ clinical, technical, professional and inter-personal skills. A three-day modular “bootcamp” course was designed for new General Surgery ST3s transitioning from Core Surgical Training to bridge the gap and support areas of developmental need. Methods Four varied modules were undertaken by candidates; one focussed on non-operative technical skills in surgery (NOTSS). Following pre-interviews with all stakeholders, immersive scenarios were developed. The programme encompassed operating in a stressful environment with a focus on crisis resource management principles, ward round leadership, theatre prioritisation, difficult communication, and a further workshop on managing bullying and sexual harassment. A multi-professional faculty included anaesthetists, theatre staff, psychiatrists and geriatricians alongside surgeons. Results All 26 trainees were invited to self-rate confidence using a 5-point Likert scale, as well as free text annotation. 13 (50%) completed both pre- and post-course confidence questionnaires. Data showed significant improvement in self-rated confidence across all NOTSS domains, particularly for operating in a stressful environment ("Confident"/ "Strongly Confident" = 69% pre-course to 100% post-course). Free text responses included highly positive feedback for high faculty to trainee ratio allowing detailed personalised feedback, exposure to multi-professional perspectives and opportunities to reflect on difficult professional scenarios. Conclusion Following the success of this course, it has now become part of ST3 Induction in Yorkshire - an opportunity to promote a positive working culture and strengthen professional relationships. A multi-specialty faculty allows for sharing of transferable inter-specialty skills. We recommend all transitional training stages would benefit from embedded induction courses.