Introduction to Theatre and Basic Surgical and Anaesthetic Skills: A New Theatre Induction Course for Medical Students

Abstract

Traditionally, the operating theatre is a suboptimal educational setting for medical students. It is an unfamiliar learning environment for those new to clinical medicine, with its own rituals, protocols and etiquette. Learning objectives are not defined clearly and many students perceive the time spent in the operating department as being of little or no educational benefit. Furthermore, most students receive very little or no formal induction into the theatre environment and this has a negative impact on learning behaviours and, indeed, patient safety.

Faculty development review: Improving learning in the operating theatre

“…Either attitude would lead to students feeling unwelcome in theatre – a common theme brought up by students 7 . If the students are made to feel unsafe and childish, proactive adult learning behaviours will be inhibited and learning will be subobtimal 9 …”

“…Other initiatives include dedicated courses or workshops run before a surgical placement in order to help students be more prepared for the theatre environment (for example teaching them about infection control), 9‐11 and these have been positively received by students. Evidence would suggest that students who feel welcome enjoy their time in theatre more, are more likely to try and attend theatre again and are more likely to be interested in a surgical career 11,12 …”

“…It has been frequently reported that medical students find the operating theatre an uncomfortable place to be. [7][8][9] The behaviours, etiquette and interactions between the anaesthetic, scrub and surgical teams will have taken years to develop, and not only are steeped in tradition, but also are vital to maintain patient safety during what may be one of the most dependent times in a patient's life. The students who recognize this may well be too nervous to interact with the team, and those that do not pose a potential risk to the patient.…”

“…7 If the students are made to feel unsafe and childish, proactive adult learning behaviours will be inhibited and learning will be subobtimal. 9 The Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS Eng) produced guidance for medical students on how to learn in the operating theatre, which is available online. 5 It provides instruction on how to behave in theatre, including basic logistics such as where and how to get changed.…”

“…Other initiatives include dedicated courses or workshops run before a surgical placement in order to help students be more prepared for the theatre environment (for example teaching them about infection control), [9][10][11] and these have been positively received by students.…”