The effect of surgical complications on ENT trainees

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Patient Safety
• Surgical Training

Background:

• The second victim phenomenon describes the trauma healthcare professionals experience after medical errors.
• Patient safety incidents affect up to 1 in 7 hospital patients, impacting patients, families, and staff.
• The emotional and professional impact on surgical trainees is not well-investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of complications and medical errors on UK otolaryngology trainees.
• To examine how these events are discussed within otolaryngology departments.

Main Methods:

• A survey was distributed to UK otolaryngology trainees.
• The survey assessed the impact of medical errors and complications.
• It also explored departmental discussions surrounding these events.

Main Results:

• Otolaryngology trainees are significantly affected by patient safety incidents.
• There is a perceived need for enhanced support and discussion within departments.
• Trainees reported a desire for more training on managing these situations.

Conclusions:

• Further training on managing medical errors and their aftermath is required for surgical trainees.
• This training is expected to be well-received and beneficial for otolaryngology trainees.
• Addressing the second victim phenomenon is crucial for surgical training programs.