Abstract Details

Title Outcomes of a “Boot Camp” for incoming neurology residents

Topic Research Methodology, ��ɫ��, and History

Presentation(s) P2 - Poster Session 2 (5:30 PM-6:30 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 4-017

Objective Prepare incoming neurology residents in clinical neurology via a short, intensive training period

Background The transition from internal medicine to neurology can be jarring for many residents, and presents a host of challenges from the complex anatomy of the nervous system to the nuances of the neurologic exam, clinical reasoning, and neurologic emergencies. Traditionally our program offered an introduction to neurology through a series of didactics intermixed with clinical duties over several months. This method was limited, however, by anxiety over caring for patients while still learning new material with conflicting clinical duties. We sought to develop an alternative introductory course to address these limitations.

Design/Methods A one-week intensive “boot camp” was developed for incoming residents. in place of clinical duties for the first week of July, they completed a series of interactive didactics covering basic neuroanatomy and physiology, the neurologic exam, urgent clinical presentations (stroke, seizure, headache, neuromuscular crises), neuroradiology, and lumbar punctures. The week concluded with a case-based review. To assess efficacy, residents were sent a post-week self-assessment (with both Likert scales and write-in sections) regarding their comfort and preparation for clinical neurology. Faculty members were sent a survey several months later asking them to compare that cohort’s preparation to that of the preceding five years.

Results Among responding residents (n=6), impressions were positive. All felt more comfortable in the topics discussed, with greater benefit derived from interactive sessions (such as those for the neurological exam) than from lecture-based sessions. Faculty (n=16) reported an improvement in preparation for the wards, clinics and consults, with particular gains in exam quality and knowledge of neuroanatomy.

Conclusions A one-week “boot camp” may better prepare incoming residents for clinical neurology, and mitigate anxiety related to transitioning to a new residency program.

Authors/Disclosures
David Valentine, MD (West Coast Neurology) PRESENTER	No disclosure on file
Alexander Allen, MD (NYU Center for Men's Health)	No disclosure on file
Raymond V. Mirasol, MD	Dr. Mirasol has stock in PGE Poland. Dr. Mirasol has stock in Exxon Mobil. Dr. Mirasol has stock in EQT. The institution of Dr. Mirasol has received research support from Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. The institution of Dr. Mirasol has received research support from Jannsen Pharmaceutical.
Arielle M. Kurzweil, MD, FAAN (NYU)	Dr. Kurzweil has nothing to disclose.

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