Medical students and metrics: Seven techniques for a win-win situation

Abstract

Background: The authors present seven winning strategies for maintaining a rich academic environment for learners while working in a busy emergency department with expected productivity metrics. Methods: This is a descriptive paper based on existing literature and on the authors' experience. Results: Winning strategies to improve ED throughput while also supporting the mission of medical education and improving the learning environment for students include the following: (1) attending first, (2) provider in triage, (3) mobile workstations, (4) patient education, (5) bedside patient presentations, (6) dedicated teaching resident, and (7) thoughtful scheduling. Conclusions: The authors present seven practical strategies that are portable to many settings.