High acceptability of a newly developed urological practical skills training program

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Urology

Background:

• Simulation training is recognized for its benefits in urology.
• Implementing structured simulation into urological curricula presents challenges.
• This study investigates current and ideal practical skills training in urology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess current urological practical skills training methods.
• To determine ideal simulation-based training preferences among residents.
• To outline a new skills training program and evaluate its acceptability.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was distributed to urology residents and program directors in Dutch teaching hospitals.
• Semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents and program directors.
• Data from questionnaires and interviews were analyzed to understand views on training.

Main Results:

• Residents predominantly learn 'by doing,' with limited structured training reported.
• A significant preference exists for practicing procedures on simulation models, especially in endourology.
• The newly developed skills training program received high approval from both residents and program directors.

Conclusions:

• Urological residency training relies heavily on 'learning by doing' with patient involvement.
• There is a clear demand for increased simulation-based practice in urology.
• Structured scheduling, peer teaching, and high-fidelity models enhance the acceptability of new training programs.