AN ORIENTATION PROGRAM FOR NEW RESIDENTS IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Objective: To describe a comprehensive orientation program for new med ical school graduates beginning residency training in obstetrics and g ynecology. Methods: A three-phase orientation program was developed an d administered over 5 days before the start of formal residency traini ng. The first phase provided instruction in basic cardiac life support and neonatal resuscitation. In the second phase, a mini-core curricul um was presented through interactive small-group seminars. Seminar top ics included prenatal care, fetal heart rate monitoring, labor and vag inal delivery, cesarean delivery, intrapartum and puerperal infection, antibiotic selection, ectopic pregnancy, and pelvic inflammatory dise ase. In the final phase of the program, the new graduates participated in five practical exercises designed to teach basic examination and s urgical techniques. Results: Two groups of five new graduates complete d the orientation program. All rated the program as excellent and reco mmended that it be made a permanent part of the curriculum. The overal l cost of the program was less than $300 per trainee. Conclusion: A co mprehensive orientation program emphasizing acquisition of practical c linical and surgical skills was successful in facilitating the transit ion from medical school to residency training in obstetrics and gyneco logy.