Video-Based Education Improves Sampling (Grossing) Confidence in Pathology Trainees

Area of Science:

• Pathology Education
• Medical Training
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Pathology resident education involves a steep learning curve for procedural tasks like specimen sampling (grossing).
• Procedural fields often incorporate video materials to enhance training, reduce errors, and improve patient care.
• Developing in-house sampling videos is a strategy to address these educational needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of in-house sampling videos on resident confidence in performing specimen sampling.
• To assess if video supplementation improves trainee confidence in pathology specimen handling.

Main Methods:

• Created "Sampling videos covering all major organ systems" (AMOS) for postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) trainees.
• Hosted videos on a cloud server for on-demand access.
• Administered three surveys (0, 6, 12 months) to compare confidence levels between trainees using videos and those who did not.

Main Results:

• Sampling confidence significantly improved at 6 and 12 months across all organ systems and PGY levels (P < .001).
• Trainees using in-house videos reported significantly higher confidence ratings at baseline and 6 months compared to non-users (P = .004).
• Confidence improved for PGY1 trainees at 6 and 12 months (P < .001), and for PGY2/PGY3 trainees at 6 months (P < .001).

Conclusions:

• In-house sampling videos, when used as a supplement, significantly enhanced pathology trainee confidence.
• Video-based learning is an effective tool for improving procedural skills and confidence in pathology residents.
• This strategy offers a scalable solution for pathology program education.