Improving Pediatric Resident Communication During Family-Centered Rounds Using a Novel Simulation-Based Curriculum

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Pediatrics
• Communication Skills

Background:

• Family-centered rounds (FCR) are crucial in pediatrics but often lack formal resident training.
• A gap exists in equipping pediatric trainees with effective FCR communication strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a curriculum addressing the identified gap in pediatric resident training for FCR.
• To enhance resident proficiency in conducting family-centered rounds through simulation-based education.

Main Methods:

• A curriculum combining didactic sessions, direct observation, and simulated FCR encounters was implemented.
• Pediatric interns participated in simulated FCR with feedback and were assessed using a novel checklist before and after the intervention.
• Trainee comfort, engagement, and self-efficacy were evaluated through surveys and focus groups.

Main Results:

• Residents showed significant improvements in greeting families, soliciting preferences, and enhancing family comfort and engagement during FCR.
• Intervention group residents received higher performance ratings compared to controls.
• Resident self-efficacy in conducting FCR increased, with high value placed on feedback.

Conclusions:

• Simulation-based training is an effective method for teaching pediatric residents best practices in FCR.
• This intervention demonstrated a lasting positive impact on resident communication skills and FCR performance.