AB058. SOH24AB₀22. A surgeon led novel surgical skills workshop for final year medical students

Background: Active participation in the operating room can be challenging for medical students. Gaining practical skills in tissue handling, suturing and laparoscopic techniques in a low-stakes simulation environment prior to surgical placement may enhance the learning experience for the medical student. We have developed and delivered a surgeon led novel surgical skills workshop for senior medical students, through the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) Student Engagement and Partnership program (StEP). The aim is to prepare senior medical students for active participation in education and learning in the operating room, during surgical placements, through prior engagement in a surgeon-delivered simulation based practical skills workshop and to increase awareness around sustainability in surgery through didactic lecture. Methods: A total of 20 RCSI final year medical students attended the workshop. Small group (1:4) practical skills teaching and feedback in basic tissue handling, knot tying and suturing was delivered by legitimate surgical trainees and consultants. Students were introduced to simulation-based laparoscopic techniques. A didactic presentation was delivered outlining the principles of sustainable surgery. Students completed a pre and post 13 question Likert-scale survey. Results: A total of 20 students attended the workshop—male (45%) female (55%). Demonstration of increased confidence in all 10 skills taught improved between pre and post course analysis. In addition, improved understanding of sustainability in surgery and increased interest in pursuing a career in surgery. Conclusions: Preparing senior medical students for surgical placement, by attending a surgeon delivered simulation surgical skills workshop is beneficial. It provides a low-stakes learning environment for engaging students and surgeons. Introducing students to the principles of sustainable surgery is an important aspect of a future in surgery.