title: Impact of training on cytotechnologists' interpretation of gynecologic thin-layer preparations.
abstract: This study determines the impact of training on the accurate interpretation of gynecologic thin-layer (TL) preparations. A workshop was developed, implemented and evaluated. Training materials were developed with the assistance of a Delphi panel. Sixty-six self-selected cytotechnologists participated. The experimental group consisted of 40 participants tested before and after an educational intervention, using gynecologic TL preparations. The 26 individuals in the comparison group were given the same pre- and post-tests as the experimental group, but the educational intervention was not offered until after the tests were administered. Data were analyzed using the t-test for independent and dependent samples, McNemar's test, point biserial correlation, and descriptive statistics. No significant difference in test scores was observed between the two groups. A correlation was observed between prior exposure to TL preparations and cytotechnologists' test scores. No correlation between experience and test scores was found.
authors.affiliation: Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Pathology Laboratory, CA 94301, USA.
authors.forename: D K
authors.initials: DK
authors.lastname: Iverson
mesh_terms: D003585:Cell Biology / Q000193:education*; D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000473:pathology; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003584:Cytological Techniques; D003697:Delphi Technique; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005188:False Negative Reactions; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D002583:Uterine Cervical Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D014626:Vaginal Smears / Q000592:standards*