title: European Working Time Directive and the use of simulators and models in Irish orthopaedics.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To report on the perceptions of a group of orthopaedic trainees and trainers on perceived effects of the proposed introduction of European Working Time Directive (EWTD) restrictions into Ireland and on the use of simulators in training orthopaedic skills.
  
  
  METHODS
  A structured questionnaire was developed to evaluate the opinions of a group of orthopaedic surgeons and trainees at the annual national orthopaedic conference.
  
  
  RESULTS
  There were 44 participants [12 consultants, 32 trainees (15 specialist registrars, 8 registrars, 9 senior house officers)]. Seventy-five percent of participants felt that both the quality of patient care and training would be negatively affected. A higher proportion of consultants than trainees felt that quality of life would be affected. A high proportion of participants (81.8%) had used a simulator or model to learn a surgical skill and 100% would consider using them again.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  While we wait for the full introduction of the EWTD hours the perception is that both quality of patient care and training will be affected. Models and simulators are well perceived as a method of training.
authors: Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland. ciaramegan@hotmail.com
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Egan
authors: R
authors: R
authors: Elliott
authors: P
authors: P
authors: Fleming
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004503:Education, Medical, Graduate; D006801:Humans; D007494:Ireland; D007858:Learning; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000193:education* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D005791:Patient Care / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors; D014937:Work / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*