To determine if a structured neurological emergency bootcamp enhances early competency in rising PGY-IIs.

The educational needs of rising PGY-II residents were assessed by screening all training levels (PGY II-IV) to identify learning gaps. Based on this, a structured bootcamp was conducted consisting of four weekly sessions, focused on the management of the following emergencies: acute ischemic stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, status epilepticus, myasthenia gravis, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Pre-bootcamp surveys, and post-bootcamp surveys given 10-14 days later, were administered to determine knowledge retention and comfort levels.

The mean knowledge scores, from pre-and-post sessions, demonstrated overall improvement across all modules. When analyzed by topic, the greatest improvement was observed in the intracranial hemorrhage session (from 46% to 64%, +18%), followed by status epilepticus (75% to 85%, +10%), and myasthenia gravis and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (from 87% to 96%, +9%). The mean average improvement was the smallest for the stroke module (from 66% to 67%, +1%). 

The mean comfort score, across all modules, demonstrated notable increases in perceived comfort managing neurological emergencies. The change in mean comfort score pre-and-post session was highest in intracranial hemorrhage (2.22 to 3.66, +1.44), followed by status epilepticus (2.42 to 3.83, +1.41), and myasthenia gravis and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (2.58 to 3.83, +1.25). The smallest gain in confidence level was in managing ischemic stroke (3.1 to 3.75, +0.65).

This pilot supports the educational value of a structured neurological emergencies bootcamp for early neurology trainees. Continuing to introduce this program to rising PGY-II residents may enhance preparedness, clinical confidence, and ultimately improve patient outcomes in high-acuity neurological settings.