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Observing trainee encounters using a one‐way mirror
Author(s) -
Sehgal Raj,
Hardman Joseph,
Haney Elizabeth
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
the clinical teacher
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.354
H-Index - 26
eISSN - 1743-498X
pISSN - 1743-4971
DOI - 10.1111/tct.12140
Subject(s) - preceptor , key (lock) , psychology , component (thermodynamics) , medical education , medicine , nursing , computer science , physics , computer security , thermodynamics
Summary Background Direct observation of patient encounters is a key component of evaluating residents during training, but there are scarce data on the various methods of observation. Aim To implement a novel method for direct observation of out‐patient encounters via a one‐way mirror in an internal medicine resident practice, and to assess the feasibility and acceptance of this method. Methods Each selected resident–patient encounter was directly observed by a preceptor through a one‐way mirror. The preceptor provided feedback to the resident at the conclusion of each encounter. A post‐visit survey assessed resident satisfaction and comfort with this method of observation. Results Using a one‐way mirror was a feasible method of observation. Fifty residents had a clinic visit that was directly observed, and 42 (84%) completed the post‐visit survey. Residents reported that they preferred direct observation through a one‐way mirror compared with other methods, including videotaped encounters or having a preceptor physically present in the room. They also felt that having a preceptor observing through the one‐way mirror had no negative effect on the clinic visit. Direct observation of patient encounters is a key component of evaluating residentsConclusions Direct observation through a one‐way mirror is a viable method in the out‐patient setting, and might be preferable for evaluating certain skills.