Junior doctor training in breast and axillary examination: a comparative study

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Education

Background:

• Breast and axillary examination is crucial for breast lump assessment.
• Limited data exists on the training effectiveness for this clinical skill.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate junior doctors' competence in breast and axillary examination.
• To assess skill improvement over time in a clinical setting.

Main Methods:

• Compared findings of specialist registrars and senior house officers against consultant assessments.
• Data collected over 15 consecutive one-stop breast clinics.

Main Results:

• Specialist registrars demonstrated proficiency in breast and axillary examination.
• Senior house officers showed slower skill progression compared to specialist registrars.

Conclusions:

• Current training may be insufficient for senior house officers' skill development.
• Re-evaluation of breast clinic organization and training programs is recommended.