Does Learner Communication Behavior Change Based on Context? Observations of Surgical Residents Across Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Communication Skills

Background:

• Surgical residency programs are developing communication skills curricula.
• Understanding surgeon communication behaviors in diverse settings is crucial.
• Assessing resident communication skills informs training needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate surgical residents' communication behaviors across different clinical settings.
• Determine how the learning environment influences surgeon-patient interactions.
• Identify areas for targeted communication skills development in residents.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a communication coaching program with standardized observation and coding.
• Evaluated resident communication on pediatric surgery, community general surgery, and trauma/acute care surgery services.
• Observed 24 senior residents interacting with patients and families during morning rounds.

Main Results:

• 373 patient-resident interactions were analyzed.
• Consistent behaviors included introductions, courtesy, and outlining next steps.
• Effective communication rates were highest in pediatrics, followed by community surgery, and lowest in trauma, with significant variations across settings.

Conclusions:

• Surgical residents exhibit significant variation in communication skills across different clinical settings.
• Training must support learners in adapting communication to diverse clinical environments.
• Enhanced surgical training requires focused communication coaching tailored to specific settings.