Date of Award
2024
Degree Name
Master of Medicine / Surgery (Thesis)
Schools and Centres
Medicine
First Supervisor
Professor Reginald Lord
Second Supervisor
Dr Warren Hargreaves
Abstract
Background Near-peer teaching (NPT) involves teaching by peers who are at a close, but not the same, level of training. This study investigated whether a novel surgical NPT workshop, designed and delivered by junior doctors using simulation models for acute otorhinolaryngology conditions, improved the knowledge and confidence level of senior medical students.
Methods A one-day NPT workshop was held for medical students in their third year of a four-year postgraduate medical degree at the University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia. Four acute otorhinolaryngology/head and neck surgery problems that might be encountered by junior doctors and require prompt management were chosen. These were post-operative neck swelling, epistaxis, and tracheostomy management (obstruction and bleeding). Six junior doctors facilitated didactic tutorials and practical skills training using models. Multiple choice question mini-tests and questionnaires were administered before and after the workshop to assess changes in students' knowledge and confidence in assessment, management, and practical skills.
Results The most common reason for participation was to acquire knowledge and practical skills (93.2%). Mean correct MCQ mini-test knowledge scores increased significantly from 60 % pre-workshop to 83.9% post-workshop (p < 0.05). Students reported significantly increased confidence in recognition and management of all four conditions. All students favoured including the course in their curriculum and would recommend the course to others. The tutors subjectively reported valuable teaching experience.
Conclusion NPT is an effective method for teaching medical students how to assess and manage acute otorhinolaryngology/ENT surgery conditions that may present as emergencies for junior medical officers on the ward.
Abbreviations ENT: Ear nose and throat surgery (Otorhinolaryngology / head and neck surgery) MCQ: multiple choice question NPT: near-peer teaching PAL: peer assisted learning UNDA: University of Notre Dame AMC: Australian Medical Council ED: emergency department GP: general practice PGY: post graduate year
Publication Details
Liu, W. (2024). The Efficacy of a Junior Doctor Led Near-Peer Surgical Teaching Program for Medical Students: A Prospective Study [Master of Medicine / Surgery (Thesis)]. The University of Notre Dame Australia. https://researchonline.nd.edu.au/theses/496