Paediatric rotations in undergraduate medical education in Switzerland: Meeting students’ expectations and the goals of the competency-based learning catalogue PROFILES

Abstract

Introduction: The competency-based catalogue of learning objectives “Principal Relevant Objectives and Framework for Integrative Learning and Education in Switzerland” (PROFILES) based on Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) was newly introduced in 2018 in undergraduate medical education in Switzerland. Clerkships provide opportunities for students to train clinical skills and competencies within the curriculum. This study aims to assess the students’ experiences during paediatric clerkships and whether they achieve the expected competency level of certain EPAs by the end of their training.Methods: An online survey was conducted among all 316 students in their last year of medical school (3 year master) enrolled at the University of Zurich. A total of 113 students who had completed a clerkship in paediatrics in different hospitals, were asked about their general expectations and experiences, and to rate their achievement of competency levels in 26 selected EPAs. An EPA was considered accomplished if a minimum of 2/3 of all students reached at least level 3.Results: Paediatric clerkship was generally viewed as positive experience by most students. However, a desire for more integration into clinical teams, increased training in clinical skills, and feedback was expressed. The expected level 3 of competency (indirect supervision) was achieved in 14 out of 26 EPAs by at least 2/3 of students. Level 3 was however not reached for more specific EPAs such as neonatal examination, rating of psychomotor and pubertal development, and clinical reasoning. Conclusion: Paediatric clerkships are regarded as valuable clinical training opportunities. To enhance the learning of competencies, integration into clinical teams and faculty training is crucial. The implementation of EPAs in the clinical context aligns with these goals.

Keywords

• undergraduate medical education
• entrustable professional activities
• paediatric clerkship
• teaching in clinical setting
• competency-based training