Formal Training Programs Research Articles

Acquiring Resourcefulness Skills: Formal Versus Informal Training.

Although resourcefulness has been successfully taught during formal training programs, it can also be acquired informally through life experiences. Family caregivers have many opportunities for learning to be resourceful on their own and those who participate in research may acquire knowledge or skills that increase their resourcefulness. The effects of such differential experiences on the resourcefulness of family caregivers have not been examined over time. This study compared changes in resourcefulness over time in caregivers who received no intervention, an educational program, biofeedback, or Resourcefulness Training©. This longitudinal analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial involved 219 caregivers of persons with bipolar disorder who completed the Resourcefulness Scale© before no intervention, an educational program, biofeedback, or Resourcefulness Training, and at 6 and 12 months afterward. Differences across the groups were examined using RMANOVA. Patterns of mean scores including differences and linear trends in resourcefulness for the four groups were examined. Overall, caregivers increased linearly in resourcefulness over time [F(1,215) = 4.836, P = .015]. Although each group showed improvement in resourcefulness, caregivers who received Resourcefulness Training showed the greatest improvement from baseline (estimated mean = 88.244, SE = 2.734) at both 6 months (estimated mean = 92.610, SE = 2.813, P = .026) and 12 months post-intervention (estimated mean = 95.049, SE = 2.752, P = .003). Consistent with resourcefulness theory, the findings showed caregivers of persons with bipolar disorder became more resourceful over time with or without formal training. However, those who received Resourcefulness Training demonstrated resourcefulness skills sooner and to a greater extent, thereby providing the rationale for formal Resourcefulness Training programs.

Fostering leadership development and growth of nurse leaders: Experiences from Midwest Nursing Research Society Leadership Academy

Leadership development and growth of nurse leaders is critically important for the thriving of the nursing profession. Formal leadership training programs are helpful in building leadership knowledge and skills. The Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS) launched the Leadership Academy (LA), a new initiative to foster leadership development among MNRS members and intentionally create a steady pool of members prepared to step into MNRS leadership positions. Mentoring by an experienced board member is a key component. The purpose of this article was to describe the experiences of a mentor and mentee dyad through the MNRS LA and discuss their perspectives on fostering leadership development and growth. The success of a leadership development program has a far-reaching impact on novice and potential future leaders. A tailored leadership mentoring relationship helps increase one’s self-confidence in being a leader and provides individualized leadership development opportunities. Engagement of both the mentee and mentor in the leadership mentoring relationship is a key to ensure an optimized leadership mentoring experience.

Special Issue on Informatics Education: Vanderbilt Clinical Informatics Center Education Strategy: To Infinity and Beyond!

The Vanderbilt Clinical Informatics Center (VCLIC) is based in the Department of Biomedical Informatics (DBMI) and operates across Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and Vanderbilt University (VU) with a goal of enabling and supporting clinical informatics research and practice. VCLIC supports several types of applied clinical informatics teaching, including teaching of students in courses, professional education for staff and faculty throughout VUMC, and workshops and conferences that are open to the public. In this paper, we provide a detailed accounting of our center and institution's methods of educating and training faculty, staff, students, and trainees from across the academic institution and health system on clinical informatics topics, including formal training programs and informal applied learning sessions. Through a host of informal learning events, such as workshops, seminars, conference-style events, bite-size instructive videos, and hackathons, as well as several formal education programs, such as the Clinical Informatics Graduate Course, Master's in Applied Clinical Informatics, Medical Student Integrated Science Course, Graduate Medical Education Elective, and Fellowship in Clinical Informatics, VCLIC and VUMC provide opportunities for faculty, students, trainees, and even staff to engage with Clinical Informatics topics and learn related skills. The described programs have trained hundreds of participants from across the academic and clinical enterprises. Of the VCLIC-held events, the majority of attendees indicated through surveys that they were satisfied, with the average satisfaction score being 4.63/5, and all events averaging a satisfaction score of greater than 4. Across the 20 events VCLIC has held, our largest audiences are DBMI, HealthIT operational staff, and students from the medical and nursing schools. VCLIC has created and delivered a successful suite of formal and informal educational events and programs to disseminate clinical informatics knowledge and skills to learners across the academic institution and healthcare system.

Potensi Inovasi Indonesia di Tengah Bonus Demografi: Menjawab Tantangan Global

Indonesia’s demographic bonus, marked by a large working-age population, offers significant potential to drive economic growth and innovation. However, despite this demographic advantage, Indonesia faces challenges in workforce quality, investment in research and development (R&D), and technological infrastructure. According to the Global Innovation Index 2023, Indonesia ranks 62nd out of 132 countries in innovation. The low proportion of skilled workers and the lack of formal training programs within companies exacerbate the innovation gap. To fully leverage its demographic potential, Indonesia needs comprehensive policy reforms in education and R&D, increased investment in human capital, and strengthened technological infrastructure. Without these improvements, the demographic bonus risks turning into a long-term burden rather than a catalyst for innovation and economic growth.

Pedagogical training of lecturers for higher education

The study aims to explore inadequate pedagogical training for higher education and strategies that could enhance effective teaching. The study adopted a constructivist paradigm and qualitative research design as it is qualitative in nature. Bandura’s social cognitive theory forms the basis for the study. The theory holds that learning occurs in a social context, interacts with the surroundings and actions, and applies the already stored schemata to acquire new knowledge. Data were generated from the critical review of the relevant literature. It was interpreted and analyzed thematically following Castle and Amanda’s five steps of thematic analysis. The results showed inadequate funding and wrong assumptions about the teaching abilities of lecturers with advanced degrees. In addition, there is also a lack of formal training programs, which contributes to the poor state of teacher training. The study revealed that enough funding and transparent lecturers’ pedagogical training structures can enhance lecturers’ teaching abilities. The study concludes that teacher training for higher education is insufficient. However, proper financial support for relevant and effective teacher training programmes could improve lecturers’ teaching skills and thus better students’ performance. The study recommends that all lecturers in higher education should go under formal teacher training. Universities should also source funds to enhance formal teacher training for novice lecturers. There should be frequent refresher courses on the latest teaching methods for gurus already in the field.

Assessing the Quality of Ship Crew Members in Sewage Pollution Prevention Practices on Marine Environmental Protection: A Case of Dar Es Salaam – Zanzibar Ropax Vessels

The maritime industry is crucial for global trade, but it also significantly impacts the marine environment, particularly through sewage pollution. This study assesses the quality of ship crew members in sewage pollution prevention practices on marine environmental protection, focusing on ROPAX vessels operating between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. The stud aims to assess the quality of ship’s crew members in training and education, experience and the number of crew in sewage pollution prevention practices. The study collected data from 80 respondents, whereby both questionnaires were used to collect the data. The data were analyzed by using T-test, Chi-square test, Descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The study finding revealed that significant deficiencies in awareness and training among crew members regarding MARPOL Annex IV regulations, with many respondents rating their understanding as very low or low. This lack of knowledge, compounded by insufficient formal training programs, hampers the effective implementation of pollution prevention measures. The study recommends a multifaceted approach, including enhanced training, financial support for compliance, and stronger regulatory oversight to improve environmental protection practices. These findings provide crucial insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to reduce the environmental impact of the Tanzanian maritime industry and protect marine ecosystem.

Training in Transplantation and Cellular Therapy in Latin America: A Cross-Sectional Study of the LABMT

Hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a complex and resource-intensive procedure that has become a critical treatment for certain hematologic conditions. However, in Latin America, access to HCT is limited compared to high-income countries, in part due to a lack of standardized training programs for HCT professionals. To address this gap, the Latin-American Bone Marrow Transplantation Group conducted a cross-sectional study to assess the current state of training programs in HCT and cellular therapy across the region. This study aimed to describe and analyze the availability, characteristics, and challenges of HCT training programs in Latin America, with a focus on identifying barriers and proposing solutions for improvement. A cross-sectional survey was sent to 127 recognized HCT centers across 14 Latin-American countries in December 2022. The survey collected data on institutional characteristics, training program structure, costs, and barriers to program development. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and comparative analyses were performed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests. Of the 127 centers surveyed, 50 (39%) responded, with the majority located in Brazil (34%) and Mexico (30%). Among the respondents, 64% (n = 32) offered formal training programs lasting 6 months or longer. The most significant barriers reported were lack of funding (n = 21), limited number of transplant procedures (n = 15), and a shortage of qualified professors (n = 11). Proposed solutions included increasing student mobility opportunities (n = 28), enhancing program quality (n = 27), and improving access to funding (n = 15). Only 6% of programs offered exposure to CAR-T therapy, and fewer than half of the centers provided international rotations. This study highlights significant disparities in HCT training programs across Latin America, with most countries lacking access to formalized training. While Brazil and Mexico serve as regional hubs, other nations have limited or no training opportunities. Addressing these gaps through increased funding, international collaborations, and standardized curricula is essential to improving HCT training and ultimately patient care in the region.

Building the private practice workforce in the Northern Territory: Barriers and facilitators for implementation of the allied health assistant role.

To identify barriers and facilitators contributing to the successful implementation of the allied health assistant role in private disability practice to better meet population needs. A qualitative case study. This study was completed with staff working in private disability practices in a regional context in the Northern Territory. Eight participants were interviewed, including three allied health assistants, three allied health professionals, and two managers with allied health backgrounds. More barriers were reported than facilitators, with four key themes identified. Financial risk was a barrier when employing allied health assistants. This risk was mediated by providing part-time employment or having allied health assistants in dual roles. Reduced confidence from allied health professionals and assistants to complete delegation work was the second barrier. A facilitator was increasing allied health assistants' task variation, which participants reported increased retention. Finally, a positive working relationship between allied health professionals and assistants facilitates delegation. This research offers private disability providers insight into the realities of employing an allied health assistant. It also suggests that formal training programs for both allied health assistants and professionals require increased focus on delegation in the private disability sector. On a government level, a review of the NDIS price guide for allied health assistant rates is needed if private providers are to better meet the requirements for NDIS participants in regional areas.

WP8.10 - Ultrasound Cannulation Training Programme: Quality Improvement Project

Abstract Aim Familiarisation with ultrasound skills can be very useful. This reduces stress for patients from multiple access attempts and preserves venous access. In our District General Hospital (DGH), no teaching on ultrasound-guided venous access was available. Our aim was to create a formal training programme on ultrasound-guided venous access for junior doctors. Methods Discussions were held with the medical education team at our DGH to understand how to organise a formal teaching programme. The interest of junior doctors was gathered through informal discussion. Those interested were then asked to complete course evaluation forms. Data was gathered on experience using ultrasound, confidence (out of 5) in performing ultrasound cannulation, and usefulness of the session (out of 5). Results Of the 49 participants, only 65% (n=32) filled in the course forms. Data was only analysed from these individuals. 47% (n=15) had previous experience using an ultrasound machine. Of the 32 participants analysed, 87.5% (n=28) felt the session was very useful and the other 12.5% (n=4) found the session to be useful. 100% (n=32) felt more confident performing ultrasound-guided access after the session. The average confidence score pre vs post-session was 1.59/5 vs 3.88/5, respectively. Conclusions This programme can improve confidence in procedural skills amongst junior doctors, whilst also minimising stress for patients of multiple access attempts. Though the sample obtained was small, it is clear to see increased confidence in participants, regardless of prior experience. The results obtained will be critical in continuing this programme in our hospital and hopefully roll out to a wider audience.

The Fletcher-Cox Pathway: A Unique View on Clinical Trial Education

PurposeThere currently are no established formal mentorship and training program for radiation oncology (RO) trainees to learn trial design, creation, writing, or implementation. There only exists informal training on analyzing clinical trials in RO residency programs. The integration of a longitudinal formal training and mentorship program for clinical trialists - consisting of clinical trial education, design, mentorship, and implementation during the RO residency education will give residents not only formal teaching in the subject, but strong tools and requisite mentorship in hopes to help them succeed as future academic physicians and leaders in the field of radiation oncology. Methods and MaterialsWe developed a clinical trial training pathway in 2018 at XXX, proposing it as a pilot program. The “Fletcher-Cox Pathway” was accepted with a highly positive response by trainees. and is is now offered as a standard option to RO trainees at our institution. ResultsWith the guidance of their principal investigator (PI), residents participating in this pathway design and submit a clinical trial for institutional review board (IRB) review. In 2019, after implementation of the pilot program, 4 of the incoming 7 residents joined the pathway. The program continues, and the current cohort of trainees have received training in clinical trials design andworked with dedicated mentor(s) regarding clinical trial ideas; their studies are currently accruing patients. ConclusionsThis pilot program has been viewed by trainees and mentors as successful; it highlights how a structured approach meets a clear need within RO training. We envision the creation of a national platform to increase access, whereby programs adopt this clinical trialist educational pathway, which ultimately leads to the development of a robust clinical trial community with communal resources. We hope that this not only improves and provides educational initiatives to all trainees but also initiates further collaboration.

Clinical research self-efficacy in academic veterinary clinicians in the United States.

Clinical research is a growing part of the academic clinician's job, and documenting areas of low self-efficacy can inform training initiatives. 182 US academic veterinary clinicians. A survey of academic veterinary clinicians was distributed to 31 US institutions. Self-efficacy was assessed with a modified Clinical Research Appraisal Instrument-12. The relationship between research self-efficacy and completion of formal research training and years of experience was evaluated. Respondents were predominantly junior to midcareer faculty. The lowest reported confidence was in performing advanced statistical analyses (3; 0 to 10). Other low-confidence tasks included designing a qualitative methods study (4; 0 to 10), terminating a collaboration that isn't working (5; 0 to 10), describing a funding agency's review/award process (5; 0 to 10), establishing a timeline for a grant application (5; 0 to 10), establishing collaborator and consultant agreements (5; 0 to 10), and asking staff to leave the project team (5; 0 to 10). Completion of a formal research training program was significantly associated with improved self-efficacy in many tasks. Years of experience was also associated, especially in project management and interpersonal interactions. These results highlight the need for targeted training opportunities for academic veterinary clinicians in biostatistical support, qualitative study design methods, and aspects of communication and interpersonal skills that are important for developing and leading effective research teams. Range of confidence suggests that development opportunities in all domains will improve self-efficacy for some clinicians. Future studies should focus on the impact of formal training sessions on various domains of self-efficacy and on targeted mentoring in supporting confidence in more experiential learning domains.

Isabella Barbour 'Ella' Pirrie (1857-1929): Pioneering contributions to British nursing.

Miss Isabella "Ella" Barbour Pirrie (1857-1929) made substantial contributions to nursing through her work in Belfast and Edinburgh. Born to a notable medical family, Pirrie's inclination toward nursing was influenced by her father's profession. She trained at the Liverpool Royal Infirmary and was mentored by Florence Nightingale, whose guidance shaped her nursing philosophy and practices. Notably, Pirrie's role in the Belfast Union Workhouse Infirmary was transformative; she championed the implementation of standardized nursing uniforms, enhancing the professional standing and recognition of nurses. Her efforts led to the establishment of a formal nursing training program in Belfast, despite facing significant resistance and challenges. In 1894, Pirrie moved to Edinburgh to become the First Matron at the Lady Grisell Baillie Memorial Hospital. Her tenure there was marked by significant advancements in nursing education, including the establishment of a community and district nursing department. By the end of her service, over 140 nurses had been trained, with many pursuing international missions. Despite her resignation in 1914 due to health issues, Pirrie continued her work as the superintendent of the Deaconess Rest Home in Edinburgh until her death in 1929. Her legacy is commemorated by a statue at Belfast City Hospital and a plaque at Greyfriars' Charteris Sanctuary, reflecting her profound impact on nursing education and the professionalization of the field.

Development of an initial training and evaluation programme for manual lower limb muscle MRI segmentation

BackgroundMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) quantification of intramuscular fat accumulation is a responsive biomarker in neuromuscular diseases. Despite emergence of automated methods, manual muscle segmentation remains an essential foundation. We aimed to develop a training programme for new observers to demonstrate competence in lower limb muscle segmentation and establish reliability benchmarks for future human observers and machine learning segmentation packages.MethodsThe learning phase of the training programme comprised a training manual, direct instruction, and eight lower limb MRI scans with reference standard large and small regions of interest (ROIs). The assessment phase used test–retest scans from two patients and two healthy controls. Interscan and interobserver reliability metrics were calculated to identify underperforming outliers and to determine competency benchmarks.ResultsThree experienced observers undertook the assessment phase, whilst eight new observers completed the full training programme. Two of the new observers were identified as underperforming outliers, relating to variation in size or consistency of segmentations; six had interscan and interobserver reliability equivalent to those of experienced observers. The calculated benchmark for the Sørensen-Dice similarity coefficient between observers was greater than 0.87 and 0.92 for individual thigh and calf muscles, respectively. Interscan and interobserver reliability were significantly higher for large than small ROIs (all p < 0.001).ConclusionsWe developed, implemented, and analysed the first formal training programme for manual lower limb muscle segmentation. Large ROI showed superior reliability to small ROI for fat fraction assessment.Relevance statementObservers competent in lower limb muscle segmentation are critical to application of quantitative muscle MRI biomarkers in neuromuscular diseases. This study has established competency benchmarks for future human observers or automated segmentation methods.Key points• Observers competent in muscle segmentation are critical for quantitative muscle MRI biomarkers.• A training programme for muscle segmentation was undertaken by eight new observers.• We established competency benchmarks for future human observers or automated segmentation methods.Graphical

The Moderating Role of Capital Intensity in the Nexus of Formal Training and Labor Productivity: The Case of Vietnam's Enterprises

Recent statistics have shown that the quality of Vietnamese labor was below that of many countries and not improving for faster economic growth. The research question is whether formal training for the workforce can enhance their skills, leading to a higher output rate. This study explores the impact of formal training on labor productivity in Vietnam’s enterprises. The regression analysis results of a World Bank Enterprise Survey in 2023 show that for firms with a high level of capital intensity, investments in formal training have a positive effect on labor productivity. Formal training programs for production workers are not significant in the productivity model, but when firms purchase and use substantial physical capital, investments in human capital through training return positive sales per worker. The results suggest that investment in human capital should not be decoupled from investment in physical capital to gain productivity.

655 Aching for Change: Musculoskeletal Pain in the Operating Room Amongst KSS Trainees

Abstract Aim Work-related injuries are common among surgeons, with some studies finding up to 70% report difficulties. Given the increasing career longevity expected from today's surgical trainees, injury prevention is more important than ever. However, ergonomics education for surgical trainees in the UK is deficient. We aimed to gauge whether current trainees in Kent, Surrey, and Sussex (KSS) experience pain whilst operating and what strategies, if any, they utilise. Method A questionnaire was distributed to trainees in the KSS School of Surgery collecting data on basic demographics, pain related to operating and pain management strategies. Results 75 trainees across the KSS region responded. Mean age was 32 years (range 26-42) and median training level was ST4. General surgery (n=22), orthopaedics (n=19) and urology (n=13) were the most prevalent specialties. All trainees reported musculoskeletal pain attributed to operating, with 36% (n=27) experiencing pain “frequently” or “always”. 69% (n=52) found this pain “sometimes”, “frequently” or “always” distracted them whilst operating. The most common sites for pain were the lower back (73%), neck (49.3%), upper back (38.7%) and shoulders (37.3%). No participants had received formal ergonomics training and the majority (86.7%) had not discussed pain with their supervisors. Conclusions Musculoskeletal pain from operating was found to be a common issue in this cohort, with the majority reporting distraction while operating. Ergonomics is not currently addressed by any formal training programmes. We have recommended a regional training initiative for trainees in KSS to address and prevent musculoskeletal injuries.

Exploring the Functionality of Technology-driven CPR Training Methodologies Among Healthcare Practitioners: A Randomized Control Pilot Study.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation training in Malaysia has evolved from traditional to modern approaches, embracing technology for better outcomes. Smartphone-based training apps offer interactive learning with simulations and real-time feedback, improving cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills anytime, anywhere. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the smart-cardiopulmonary resuscitation application for healthcare practitioners. This randomized controlled pilot study was conducted with 30 healthcare practitioners at the University of Malaysia Sabah. Participants underwent a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Practical formal educational training program, and data were collected using a Basic Life Support questionnaire and skills assessment checklist sourced from the American Heart Association (2020). Data analysis was conducted utilizing repeated analysis of variance and the Cochran 'Q' test supported by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences statistical software. The control and intervention groups showed improved knowledge and skills from pre-to post-cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses; a significant increase was observed in the intervention group compared to the control group. The F-test indicated a significant time-group effect (F-stat (df) = 16.14 (2), p = 0.01). Cochran's 'Q' test also revealed significant changes in the proportion of healthcare practitioners passing their skills assessments over time (2 = 14.90, control 01). The smart-cardiopulmonary resuscitation application is convenient for refreshing cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills and maintaining proficiency. While it doesn't replace formal cardiopulmonary resuscitation courses, it saves healthcare practitioners and the community time and money. Both groups showed improved cardiopulmonary resuscitation knowledge and skills, with the intervention group using the smart-cardiopulmonary resuscitation application showing higher success rates after two months. Adopting smartphone-based cardiopulmonary resuscitation training with comprehensive content is recommended.

Managerial Influence on Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Implementation in Israeli Hospitals: A Doctoral Research Study

Background: This research, part of a doctoral study, aims to examine the impact of managerial factors on the implementation of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in Israeli hospitals. The study focuses on identifying key facilitators and barriers from the perspectives of physician and nurse managers, with an emphasis on understanding the integration of managerial strategies and theoretical frameworks in IPC implementation. Objective: The objective is to explore specific managerial factors, both facilitators and barriers, influencing the effective implementation of IPC measures. The research investigates these influences through the lens of physicians and nurses managing IPC units in public hospital settings. Methodology: A mixed-method approach was adopted, involving in-depth interviews with ten IPC-Unit managers (five physicians and five nurses) and a comprehensive questionnaire distributed among IPC-Unit heads. The study’s demographic and professional profiles of participants are detailed in Table 1. The data collection process encompassed an Activity Assessment Questionnaire (2-AAQ) and an Organizational Change Implementation Questionnaire (3-OrgChangeImplQ), with the distribution of responses categorized by implementation stages and sociological theories (Tables 2-4). Result: Managerial autonomy emerged as a significant catalyst for IPC implementation, with supportive leadership and resource allocation being critical. Differences in approaches between physician and nurse managers were observed, reflecting diverse strategies in planning, execution, monitoring, and maintenance of IPC measures. The findings also revealed a natural alignment with sociological theories, particularly Normalization Process Theory (NPT) and Diffusion of Innovations (DOI), despite a lack of formal training in these areas. Conclusions: The study underscores the multifaceted nature of IPC implementation, highlighting the importance of managerial autonomy, supportive leadership, and a deep understanding of organizational culture. The inherent alignment of IPC strategies with NPT and DOI theories suggests the potential of these frameworks in guiding IPC implementation. The research advocates for the integration of these theoretical perspectives into formal training programs to enhance the effectiveness of IPC measures in healthcare settings.

Pathways to Leadership: A Cross-cultural Analysis of Women Leaders in Pakistan and United States

This study investigates the experiences of women in leadership roles within higher education institutions in Pakistan and the United States. The main aim is to understand how women describe their experiences in attaining, advancing, and maintaining leadership positions in higher education. It contributes to theoretical understandings of women's leadership and highlighting unique challenges and opportunities in different cultural contexts. This study employs Mezirow's (2003) Critical Reflection Theory as a theoretical framework to guide participants' retrospective storytelling process. Through qualitative research methods including semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis of interview transcripts, the study explores how women navigate their journeys to leadership positions and the challenges they encounter. Despite cultural variations, female leaders in both countries face comparable obstacles such as gender bias and limited training opportunities. To empower these leaders, policies should prioritize formal leadership training, address workplace bias, and support work-life balance initiatives. Policy implications include the implementation of formal leadership training programs, addressing unconscious bias, and supporting family-friendly policies to empower female leaders. Advocacy for legislative measures promoting gender equality in leadership positions is crucial for creating supportive policy environments globally. Keywords: Cross culture, work life balance, leadership, gender gap, networking, and mentorship

Practices of Dental Care and Treatment Provided to Pediatric Patients in Private Dental Clinics in Lahore, Pakistan

&lt;p&gt;Background and Objective: With the high prevalence of dental caries among children in Pakistan and the limited availability of pediatric dentists, dental care is provided majorly by general dentists. This study aims to determine the preventive dental care provided to pediatric dental patients by general dentists in private practice settings in Lahore.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 185 general dentists working in private dental clinics in Lahore, utilizing an online validated questionnaire designed by the authors and distributed through email and WhatsApp using a purposive sampling technique. Data were analyzed using statistical software, and p-value of 0.05 was taken as significant.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Results: Most respondents (73.5%) reported the unavailability of pediatric dentists in their clinics. About one-third of the respondents always chose to refer their child to a pediatric dentist. About 48.1% of the general dentists were &amp;ldquo;somewhat aware&amp;rdquo; of the behavioral management techniques. Pediatric-specific dental treatment services were more frequently provided in clinics where a pediatric dentist was available. Fillings were the most frequent (90.8%) treatment services, along with extractions (79.5%), pulpectomies (69.2%), and pulpotomies (65.9%). Notably, 74.1% of the general dentists had not attended any workshop or course in pediatric dentistry.&lt;/p&gt; &lt;p&gt;Conclusion: General dentists in private practices provide minimal dental treatment to pediatric patients, with a significant number lacking formal training in pediatric dentistry. This highlights the need for formal training programs to improve the quality of pediatric dental care.&lt;/p&gt;

Examining where to go: pediatric psychology trainees' perception of their graduate training in culture and diversity.

Culture and diversity-related training is critical to the development of competent pediatric psychologists. Evaluation of training efforts have been conducted at the program level, yet evaluation of trainee experiences in culture and diversity-related training remains unassessed. This trainee-led study was the first formal assessment of pediatric psychology trainee experiences of culture and diversity-related training and the impact of training on their own cultural humility. Study overview and a survey link was distributed across 2 listservs associated with the American Psychological Association (Division 53, Division 54) and sent directly to directors of graduate, internship, and fellowship training programs with a request to share with trainees. Surveys assessing integration of cultural training and trainee cultural humility were completed. Trainees also provided qualitative feedback regarding their multicultural training and development. Pediatric psychology trainees (N = 90) reported inconsistent integration of culture and diversity topics into their training. Of the 34 training areas assessed, 10 were perceived as thoroughly integrated into formal training by at least half of the respondents. Trainees often sought independent cultural training outside of their programs, and no relationship was detected between perceived integration of cultural training and trainee cultural competence. Results indicate room for improvement regarding integration of cultural training and a need to better understand driving forces behind trainees independently seeking training outside of their formal training programs. Moreover, understanding the aspects of training that are most contributory to trainee development is needed given that no relationship between training and development emerged in the current study.