Filling the Void: Defining Invasive Bedside Procedural Competency for Internal Medicine Residents

Abstract

Introduction In an effort to improve patient safety, residency programs are seeking new methods of teaching invasive bedside procedures. 1–3 Studies confirm that simulation-based train-ing, 4,5 use of ultrasound, 6,7 adherence to a checklist, 8 team training, 9 and direct observation 10 decrease complication rates, thereby improving safe practices. In 2007, the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) ceased to mandate technical competency for some procedures, while it recommended active participation in a predetermined number of procedures subsequent to Funding: This study was partially funded by the Florida Medical Malpractice Joint Underwriting Association. Funds received from the grant were used for partial salary support for K.L.A. and J.D.L., full salary support for K.F., and procurement of equipment, specifically mannequins and ultrasound units. The granting organization had no role in the design or conduct of the study; collection, management, analysis, or interpretation of the data; or preparation, review, or approval of the manuscript. Abstract Background Residents perform invasive bedside procedures in most training programs. To date, there is no universal approach for determining competency and ensuring quality and safety of care.