A methodology to maximize resident input in improving a pediatric rotation.
OBJECTIVE
To develop a structured process to gain resident input into the improvement of their educational experience by (1) taking a small amount of resident time and effort, (2) fostering the generation of new ideas, (3) allowing the prioritization of ideas, (4) generating implementation plans for the ideas, and (5) offering the participants relative anonymity.


METHODS
Cross-sectional survey and group sessions.


METHODS
Urban, university-based children's hospital.


METHODS
Members of the pediatric residency program in the 1993-1994 academic year.


RESULTS
The process was piloted for an emergency department rotation and borrows aspects of the Delphi Technique, Nominal Group Technique, and focus group methods. A survey regarding an emergency department rotation was distributed to all pediatric residents, and the 10 most commonly noted problems were compiled. These problems were brought to group sessions held for each level of training. Problems not listed were added if they were mentioned during the session; however, no problem was removed from the list. The sessions, designed to offer relative anonymity to the residents, included an initial clarification period, a round-robin prioritization of ideas, and an open discussion designed to generate solutions. Resident-generated solutions resulting from the group sessions were reviewed by the attending staff, and changes were implemented during the next year.


CONCLUSIONS
The technique that we developed is a practical and time-efficient method of incorporating resident perspectives into the improvement of a rotation.
Fein
J A
JA
Division of Emergency Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Pa., USA. fein@email.chop.edu
Lavelle
J M
JM
Ginsburg
K R
KR
Giardino
A P
AP
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003697:Delphi Technique; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000193:education*; D017144:Focus Groups / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000458:organization & administration*; D007587:Job Description; D008505:Medical Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires / Q000592:standards*; D016526:Workload