Perception of In-Person Prerounding Amongst Neurology Residents Across Two Academic Centers.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Neurology Practice
• Healthcare Operations

Background:

• In-person prerounding is a traditional practice for neurology residents.
• The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift towards computer rounding in academic neurology centers.
• This study evaluates the impact of computer rounding versus combined computer and in-person prerounding.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of computer rounding alone versus a combination of computer rounding and in-person prerounding.
• To assess these effects from the perspective of neurology residents.
• To understand resident experiences with traditional versus modified rounding practices.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was utilized.
• A survey was administered to 79 neurology residents.
• Qualitative thematic analysis was performed on resident responses.

Main Results:

• Residents engaging in in-person prerounding spent more time on rounding tasks.
• In-person prerounding had a neutral effect on patient relationships and bedside time for most residents.
• Significant negative impacts were reported on residents' personal lives and other tasks, with themes of inefficiency and sleep disturbance identified.

Conclusions:

• Neurology residents perceive in-person prerounding as inefficient and disruptive to sleep.
• While some value face-to-face interaction, computer rounding enhances data review and efficiency.
• Eliminating in-person prerounding may improve resident well-being, warranting further investigation across stakeholder groups.