[Using descriptors during the implementation of Mini-CEX at pediatric residency]

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Clinical Assessment
• Pediatric Residency Training

Background:

• The Mini Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) is a performance-based assessment tool.
• Its educational value relies on direct observation and feedback.
• Adapting Mini-CEX for pediatric settings requires specific descriptors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the reliability and feasibility of the Mini-CEX tool.
• To assess its implementation using pediatric-specific descriptors in residency programs.
• To determine observer agreement and user satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Observational, exploratory, and feasibility study design.
• Development and use of pediatric-specific descriptors for Mini-CEX dimensions.
• Training operators in tool usage and debriefing strategies.
• Simultaneous, independent evaluations by two observers per session.

Main Results:

• High inter-observer agreement was observed (Mean difference 0.1-0.3).
• Overall Mini-CEX scores were high (7.5±0.9), with no institutional differences.
• High user satisfaction reported by operators and residents; average implementation time was 20 minutes.

Conclusions:

• The Mini-CEX tool, adapted with pediatric descriptors, is reliable and feasible for pediatric residency training.
• The implementation was satisfactory, highlighting the value of direct observation and debriefing.
• This assessment method supports effective clinical skills evaluation in pediatrics.