Abstract: SA-PO920
Improvement in Self-Perceived Clinical Competence among Indiana University Nephrology Fellows after Intersession
Session Information
- Educational Research
November 04, 2017 | Location: Hall H, Morial Convention Center
Abstract Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Category: Nephrology Education
- 1301 Educational Research
Authors
- Hallab, Ayman, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Eadon, Michael T., Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Moorthi, Ranjani N., Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
- Decker, Brian S., Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
Background
The first year of Nephrology fellowship training is a clinically intensive experience in the USA. Our Nephrology fellowship program introduced an Intersession for first-year fellows during the academic year 2016-2017. We hypothesized that an intersession will improve fellows’ self-perceived competence in core nephrology disciplines.
Methods
A 2-week intersession included hands-on training in home hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and temporary catheter placement. Instruction in acute kidney injury management, hypo/hypernatremia, acid-base disorders and resistant hypertension was conducted via didactics, independent readings, and case-based discussions. Small-group workshops emphasized consultant professionalism. Fellows were exempt from clinical duties with the exception of their once weekly continuity clinic. An anonymous survey of 8 questions was conducted before and two weeks after the intersession to rate self-perceived competence. A scale of 1 to 5 was used to assess self-competence.
Results
All five first-year fellows participated in the Intersession. Five pre-surveys and 4 post-surveys were collected. One pre-survey was not adequately filled and excluded from the analysis. The average competence pre- and post-intersessions are shown in table 1. There was an increase in competence in AKI, acid-base, hypertension, and home hemodialysis management (p<0.05 for all). There was an increase in overall competence (p<0.05).
Conclusion
An intersession for first-year nephrology fellows significantly improves self-reported competence. It is expected that intersessions will be continued in the following years in the Nephrology fellowship program and longer term outcomes will be available.
Table 1- Self-reported competence pre- and post-intersession
| Pre | Post | p-value | |
| Acute Kidney Injury | 3.25 | 4.33 | 0.045 |
| Hypo/hypernatremia | 3.25 | 3.75 | 0.390 |
| Acid-base disorders | 2.75 | 3.75 | 0.030 |
| Temporary catheter insertion | 3.50 | 4.50 | 0.356 |
| Hypertension | 2.50 | 4.25 | 0.004 |
| Home hemodialysis | 1.75 | 3.00 | 0.002 |
| Peritoneal Dialysis | 2.75 | 3.25 | 0.207 |
| Consultant Professionalism | 4.25 | 4.75 | 0.207 |
| Overall Competency | 3.00 | 3.95 | 0.010 |