Novel Changes in Resident Education during a Pandemic: Strategies and Approaches to Maximize Residency Education and Safety

Abstract

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a reduction in surgical and clinical volume, which has altered the traditional training experience of the otolaryngology resident. Objective To describe the strategies we utilized to maximize resident education as well as ensure patient and staff safety during the pandemic. Methods We developed a system that emphasized three key elements. First and foremost, patient care remained the core priority. Next, clinical duties were restructured to avoid unnecessary exposure of residents. The third component was ensuring continuation of resident education and maximizing learning experiences. Results To implement these key elements, our residency divided up our five hospitals into three functional groups based on geographical location and clinical volume. Each team works for three days at their assigned location before being replaced by the next three-person team at our two busiest sites. Resident teams are kept completely separate from each other, so that they do not interact with those working at other sites. Conclusions Despite the daily challenges encountered as we navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, our otolaryngology residency program has been able to establish a suitable balance between maintenance of resident safety and well-being without compromise to patient care.

Pediatric Intern Clinical Exposure During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…Radiology and surgical programs have developed simulations to mimic regular workdays for residents. 6,24 In our program, we developed a virtual work from home option for residents with heightened individual or family health risks. 25 Although these strategies do not replace in-person clinical interactions, virtual learning and patient care play fundamental roles in advancing resident training while also minimizing infectious risks.…”

“…[1][2][3][4][5] In response to these changes and in an effort to minimize resident exposure, residency programs have altered resident schedules. 6,7 We sought to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pediatric interns' exposure to different types and care settings of pediatric diseases, at the onset of the pandemic and amid the initial surge. We hypothesized that pediatric interns evaluated fewer patients and these patients had a different spectrum of disease during the COVID-19 pandemic.…”

Ophthalmology practice during COVID-19 pandemic: A survey of Indian ophthalmologists

“…It has adversely affected the clinical and surgical training of residents, continued medical training of doctors, financial loss to those in private practice, and a physically as well as mentally hostile work condition for those working in COVID-19 hospitals in the government setup. [ 9 11 12 13 14 ] In the current study, we assessed the ophthalmic practice pattern among ophthalmologists in India during the COVID-19 pandemic.…”

Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on trauma surgical education at a level I trauma center

“…Other programs have used home surgical kits and virtual procedure and skills labs [ 4 , 5 ]. Many residency programs have also implemented separate resident teams that stay together to limit interactions among residents and limit the possibility of spreading COVID-19 [ 6 , 7 ]. Airway management practices have evolved during the pandemic to minimize exposure during aerosolizing events like intubations, chest tubes, or any other event or procedure that could produce droplets that could spread COVID-19.…”