A survey into the patterns of shifting clinical and academic activity of orthopedic residents during the COVID-19 epidemic

Activity of residents during COVID-19

Abstract

Background: The orthopedic residency training programs have faced an extraordinary challenge in adapting to a web-based learning environment and simulation-based instruction as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The emphasis of this study is on the orthopedic residents' perspectives on the paradigm change in clinical treatment and academic activities.

Materials and Methods: One hundred and fourteen orthopedic residents at seven tertiary care facilities were sent an anonymous survey created in an online survey generator through email. The questionnaire was broken down into three sections: clinical activity, mental health, and academic activity. There were a total of 44 single-answer questions, and the answers were arranged in order of increasing difficulty from the former circumstance (before the COVID-19 epidemic) to the current situation.

Results: 54 junior residents (67.5%) and 26 senior residents (32.5%) completed a total of 79 surveys. A quarantine was imposed on 25 residents (31%) and two tested positive for COVID-19. Even though they were all aware of the need for safety precautions, getting access to personal protective equipment could be challenging at times. There was a noticeable increase in the difficulty of finding new patients for study (48.9%) and conducting prospective research (48.7%). Most locals said that learning through the internet was simpler (44.2%) than learning in person. According to the majority of the residents, routine clinical work in the operating room, outpatient department, and inpatient department was challenging in addition to their fear of getting sick.

Conclusion: The results of this study can assist institutions and program chairs in developing a strong program that can outlive this epidemic. There are special chances for residency program enhancement during these times of uncertainty. Long-term integration of the web-based learning process into the resident training program may show to be beneficial.