Jill Leavens-Maurer
Winthrop University Hospital
Introduction: The ability to lead effective informed consent discussions is an important skill associated with improved patient satisfaction and health outcomes. Few studies of educational interventions focused on informed consent have included performance data related to residents’ ability to lead informed consent discussions.
The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of a focused educational intervention on the ability of pediatric residents to lead informed consent discussions during a standardized patient exercise and determine what teaching strategies residents perceive as most effective.
Methods: This was a mixed methods study involving pediatric residents from an academic program. A focused educational intervention was piloted that included structured role-plays. Residents completed pre- and post-intervention questionnaires and standardized patient exercises. Focus groups were used to learn more about attitudes related to informed consent and learning preferences.
Results: There was significant improvement in mean scores on knowledge questions and mean performance scores following the intervention. There was no correlation between changes in knowledge and attitudes and changes in performance. Role-plays and standardized patient encounters were significantly more effective than other teaching strategies.
Focus group themes included a strong preference for experiential learning, recognition of the importance of feedback and the need for education early in training. Role-plays with feedback were recognized as an effective teaching strategy but with limitations.
Conclusions: Focused education improved residents’ ability to lead informed consent discussions. Education provided early in training is likely to provide the greatest benefit. Interactive learning strategies that incorporate feedback and provide opportunities for practice should be included. Education should include risks of procedures. Role-plays with feedback may be an effective alternative to standardized patients.
