Optimizing resident operative self-confidence through competency-based surgical education modules: are we there yet?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Gynecology

Background:

• Self-confidence is crucial for surgical performance and can be improved through targeted training.
• Optimizing trainee confidence is a key goal in surgical education.
• Novice gynecology residents require effective methods to build confidence in performing procedures like vaginal hysterectomy (VH), anterior repair (AR), and posterior repair (PR).

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of procedure-specific competency-based educational modules on gynecology residents' self-confidence and satisfaction.
• To determine if these modules improve performance confidence during index procedures in the operating room.
• To investigate the relationship between self-confidence and satisfaction in surgical trainees.

Main Methods:

• An ancillary analysis of a randomized-controlled trial involving gynecology residents with limited independent procedural experience.
• Intervention group received procedure-specific educational modules; control group engaged in self-directed learning.
• Validated Self-Confidence and Satisfaction Scales were administered post-procedure, with scores compared between groups.

Main Results:

• Self-confidence was significantly higher in the intervention group for vaginal hysterectomy (p=0.021), but not for anterior or posterior repair.
• Intervention residents who had never performed vaginal hysterectomy (p=0.026) or posterior repair (p=0.027) showed significantly higher self-confidence.
• Self-confidence was also higher in first and second-year residents in the intervention group, with a positive correlation between self-confidence and satisfaction.

Conclusions:

• Competency-based surgical modules effectively enhance self-confidence, particularly for junior residents and more complex procedures like vaginal hysterectomy.
• The study underscores the need for surgical educators to focus on optimizing trainee self-confidence.
• Targeted educational interventions can improve both self-confidence and satisfaction in surgical trainees.