The Inclusion of Practical Urology Skills in Intern Induction: A Pilot Programme

Introduction Intern is the first postgraduate year of training and gives interns the opportunity to practice skills in real-life settings. We aim to examine the undergraduate exposure to urology across all Irish Medical Schools and assess the impact of a mandatory urology training skills session delivered during induction on the preparedness of interns ahead of starting their intern year. Methods In July 2020 all interns mandated to attend the Dublin/Mid-Leinster (DML) network intern induction underwent a 120-minute urology teaching session. The session comprised of formal teaching, followed by practical training and an informal question and answer session. All interns were asked to complete a survey before and after the session that examined undergraduate urology exposure and confidence around practical skills. Results All interns (n=74) who attended induction completed the survey. Less than half [43% (n=32]) reported a compulsory urology placement in medical school and 57% (n=42) reported previous practical training sessions in urology. There was low level of confidence in the management of urological scenarios with only 45 % (n = 33) reporting confidence in the management of urosepsis and 26 % (n = 19) in the insertion of a male catheter. There was a significant increase in self-reported confidence following the teaching session with 78 % (n = 58) interns reporting confidence in the management of urosepsis and 81 % (n = 60) in the insertion of a male catheter. Conclusion To ensure best patient care interns need to be trained in the management of common urology presentations, but our results suggest the current undergraduate curriculum is not sufficient. A dedicated theory and practical urology teaching session during intern induction was able to improve self-reported confidence and better prepare interns. Therefore we support inclusion of practical urology skills session in network intern induction.