Impact of a postgraduate six-month rotation in palliative care on knowledge and attitudes of junior residents

Abstract

Fifty junior residents completed a six-month training period. An anonymous postal questionnaire was sent to collect the residents' opinions on improvements in their knowledge, perception of priorities and usefulness of training. Responses were rated from 5 (a great deal) to 1 (not at all improved).

A total of 33 (66%) questionnaires were returned. A mean score of 4.48 was obtained on general improvement of knowledge, 4.91 ± 0.29 on pain control, 4.17 ± 0.58 on neurological symptoms, 4.09 ± 0.77 on psychological symptoms, 4.64 ± 0.60 on communication skills and 4.4 ± 0.91 on physician attitudes. Some 58% of residents began the training with apprehension, 85% outlined their priorities and 76% reached these objectives. A total of 70% were fully satisfied with the tuition and support received and 98% recommended such clinical rotation.

Data suggest that a six-month rotation in palliative care results in high levels of perception of improvement in knowledge and satisfaction. Exposure to palliative care patients during clinical rotations in specialized centres must be encouraged.

Keywords

clinical rotation education palliative care

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