Mastery Learning in Communication Skills to Improve Clinical Performance and Reduce Burnout in Anesthesiology Residents

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying whether mastery learning in communication skills can enhance skills in a simulated setting and lead to better clinical performance and reduced burnout among anesthesiology residents. This multi-institutional randomized controlled trial involves participants from five residency programs, comparing mastery learning to the standard approach of vicarious learning. Participants will be assigned to either a mastery learning group, which involves a simulation-based curriculum focused on difficult conversations, or a standard of care group without this intervention. The study evaluates the impact of these two approaches on communication skills, clinical milestone performance, and burnout. Participants communication skills will be assessed after one year, milestone performance after two years, and burnout levels after 1.5 years. The study involves regular evaluations to measure these outcomes, with a focus on translational improvements from simulation to clinical practice. The total study duration extends until 2030, allowing long-term follow-up of these effects.

Mastery Learning in Communication Skills