A Model of Basic Surgical Skills Course to Supplement the Training of Foundation-Year Doctors by Efficient Use of Local Resources

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the efficiency of teaching basic surgical skills to foundation-year doctors and medical students by using local resources. METHODS: A course comprising 4 workshops, once a week, of 3 hours duration per session was delivered using local education center facilities and using the local faculty of consultants and surgical trainees. Teaching methods include practical skill stations supplemented with short didactic lectures and group discussion. Precourse and postcourse assessments were completed by candidates and analyzed to measure outcomes of the course both subjectively and objectively. RESULTS: A total number of 20 participants completed the course. On completion of the course, (1) participants' theoretical knowledge improved significantly (p < 0.0001), as measured by multiple-choice questions, and scores improved by 35% (mean 44%, standard deviation = 16%) before the course compared to (mean = 79%, standard deviation = 13) after the course; (2) the level of confidence in knowledge and skills was measured by a questionnaire on a scale of 1 to 5, and there was a significant (p < 0.0001) improvement on postcourse assessment (mean difference = 1.5, 95% CI: 0.7-2.4); and (3) practical skills such as suture position, knot tying, and wound apposition significantly improved after the course, χ(2) (2) = 16, p < 0.001; χ(2) (2) = 18, p < 0.001; and χ(2) (2) = 22, p < 0.0001, respectively. CONCLUSION: Effective delivery of basic surgical skills to foundation-year doctors by using local resources can be achieved at low cost