GP trainers' experience of managing a trainee in difficulty: a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• General Practice Training
• Healthcare Professional Development

Background:

• Growing awareness of how healthcare professional performance impacts patient care.
• Understanding GP trainer experiences with trainees in difficulty (TiDs) is crucial for positive outcomes.
• Limited empirical data exists on GP trainers' experiences managing TiDs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore GP trainers' emotional responses when managing TiDs.
• To identify strategies GP trainers employ to manage these responses.
• To understand the support systems utilized by GP trainers.

Main Methods:

• Conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 GP trainers in London.
• Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically.
• NVivo software was used for data management by clinical educators.

Main Results:

• GP trainers reported anxiety stemming from patient safety concerns, trainee progress, and fear of perceived failure.
• Trainers described the impact of TiDs on themselves, patients, practices, and the trainer-trainee dynamic.
• Effective strategies included emotional self-awareness, reflection, and seeking support from peers and workshops.

Conclusions:

• This study offers novel insights into the challenges and strategies of GP trainers managing TiDs.
• Experiential and peer-learning approaches are vital for trainers supporting TiDs and managing their own emotions.
• Medical education providers must ensure adequate support systems are in place for trainers managing challenging trainees.