The advanced life support in obstetrics course as an orientation tool for obstetrics and gynecology residents.

Abstract

This study was undertaken to assess the utility of the Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics Course for obstetrics/gynecology first-year residents by triangulating pretest and posttest scores on written test of knowledge by interns, with qualitative surveys by residents, and faculty. Obstetrics/gynecology interns took a quantitative pretest and posttest on obstetric emergencies. These postgraduate first-year residents were also surveyed about their qualitative expectations about the course in advance and about their evaluation of the course after course completion. Nine postgraduate first year residents took the Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics course and participated in this study on June 2005. Postgraduate first year residents demonstrated an increase of 31% between mean pretest and posttest scores. Postgraduate first year residents found the course to be a good, hands-on practical review of common obstetric problems. Obstetrics/gynecology faculty and residents agreed that the course was useful hands tool for orientation. Advanced Life Support Obstetrics course is an effective educational tool during orientation for obstetrics/gynecology residents.