Entrustment trends in orthotic and prosthetic residencies

Area of Science:

• Orthotics and Prosthetics
• Medical Education
• Clinical Supervision

Background:

• Limited guidance exists for orthotic and prosthetic (O&P) residency preceptors transitioning residents from observation to independent patient care.
• Understanding entrustment trends and influencing factors is crucial for resident progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify trends and factors in O&P residencies that affect a supervisor's decision to entrust residents with independent patient care.
• To provide data that can inform O&P residency training and clinical education standards.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 831 National Commission of Orthotic and Prosthetic Education preceptors.
• An online questionnaire assessed 26 factors influencing entrustment decisions.
• 77 preceptors completed the survey.

Main Results:

• Top behavioral qualities for entrustment: recognition of limitations and willingness to ask for help (n=45), and competence (n=37).
• Evaluation skills (n=27) were ranked highest among professional skills affecting entrustability; technical skills had the least impact (n=4).
• Preceptors in 12-month residencies entrust residents by 75% completion (9 months), while 18-month residencies entrust by 50% completion (9 months).

Conclusions:

• Residency supervisors prioritize interpersonal and evaluation skills in entrustment decisions.
• Findings can guide preceptors in supporting resident progression to independent practice.
• This information can influence clinical education standards to improve resident training and patient care access.