Orthopaedic Trainees Retain Knowledge After a Partner Abuse Course: An Education Study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Public Health
• Surgical Training

Background:

• Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a critical global health concern disproportionately affecting women.
• Educating healthcare providers is essential for identifying, preventing, and treating IPV victims.
• Orthopaedic surgical trainees require specific education on recognizing and managing IPV in patients with musculoskeletal injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a half-day educational course on orthopaedic surgical trainees' knowledge and attitudes toward IPV.
• To assess the perceived value and acceptance of IPV education among surgical trainees.

Main Methods:

• A half-day educational curriculum on IPV was developed, covering basics, research, and the orthopaedic surgeon's role.
• 33 orthopaedic surgical trainees completed pre-course, post-course, and 3-month follow-up questionnaires assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
• Knowledge scores and attitudes regarding IPV screening and management were analyzed across the three time points.

Main Results:

• Mean correct answers on IPV knowledge increased from 57% pre-course to 73% immediately post-course, with retention at 68% at 3 months (p = 0.001).
• Agreement that IPV is an important issue rose from 94% to 100% post-course.
• Skepticism about healthcare system resources for IPV screening decreased significantly post-course (53% to 36%) and was maintained at 3 months (33%).

Conclusions:

• A brief educational intervention effectively improved and sustained knowledge of IPV among orthopaedic surgical trainees.
• The study recommends integrating IPV education into orthopaedic surgery training programs.
• Future efforts should focus on developing sustainable IPV education programs for broader healthcare professional impact.