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Abstract Aim To create an introductory course or “bootcamp” to assist new ST3s transition from working at core trainee to General Surgical Registrar level. Method Using previous expertise of “bootcamps” delivered in the region in similar specialities, a 3-day programme was designed to offer training in areas aligned to the curriculum and considered useful to newly starting higher surgical trainees. The course involved a mix of simulation-based workshops, lectures and skill-based labs. The programme was delivered by a senior faculty directing activity with support from industry partners and medical education/simulation expertise. A range of skills were targeted using animal, virtual and augmented reality models, low and high-fidelity simulation, and non-operative technical skills (NOTSS) in simulated ward and theatre environments. Results 26 trainees (23 new General Surgery ST3s, 3 returning to training) completed the bootcamp. Feedback questionnaires using a likert scale demonstrated clear improvements in trainees’ own skill perception in endoscopy, laparoscopy, open surgery and NOTSS. 100% of responding trainees’ were confident or strongly confident post course, compared to 69% before. We also showed an increase in confidence in laparoscopic suturing (77%), duodenal ulcer repair (69%) and operating in a stressful environment. Conclusions A transitional “bootcamp” can provide both tangible and intangible benefits. This project showed clear improvement in trainee confidence both in key practical and non-practical skills such as communication. It also enabled registrars to familiarise themselves with new colleagues, facilitating an early welcome from the region and embedded support network.
Clarke et al. (Sun,) studied this question.