Evaluation of a clinical communication programme for perioperative and surgical care practitioners

Abstract

Introduction Communication is integral to clinical work. This paper describes a communication programme (CP) designed for two new professional roles. Training in communication is often focused on interactions with patients. Equally important is supporting clinicians to communicate with each other. The authors devised a CP for perioperative specialist and surgical care practitioners. Methods The CP spanned the broader training programme. The evaluation combined trainees' self- ratings, value of educational methods, summative assessments, written reflections and focus groups. Results The CP was offered over three consecutive years (29 trainees) and showed a progressive increase in trainees' sa..