#36241 Survey of trainees’ experiences with regional anaesthesia (RA) training programme in a teaching hospital over 20 years: 2003–2023

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Background and Aims

Formal Regional Anaesthesia (RA) training in our hospital was established 20 years ago. A survey was conducted on the experience of formal RA training delivered over this period.

Methods

We identified 78 anaesthetists who completed formal RA training at the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre (NOC), Oxford since 2003. 65 anaesthetists, whose contact details were confirmed, were emailed an anonymous survey via Survey Monkey or Microsoft Forms. Phase 1 spans 2003 – February 2020, before WHO declared Covid-19 Pandemic [February 2023 and included questions concerning the impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic (17- vs 27-questions).

Results

Most respondents identified their main aim in RA training was to gain practical skills. Anaesthetists were most confident in performing single-shot ultrasound guided RA limb blocks and central neuraxial blocks. 81% of those working as consultant anaesthetists (25/31) agreed RA training in Oxford helped secure their desired consultant post. Since Covid-19 Pandemic, a higher level of direct supervision was provided. 76% (16/21) respondents’ RA training was affected, with less clinical exposure and educational events being the main reasons.

Conclusions

Our survey suggested high quality of RA training was provided in a supportive environment, rising to the challenge of Covid-19 Pandemic [2]. Some respondents significantly enhanced their non-technical skills leading to successful career progression. The new 2021 RCoA Training Curriculum emphasizes a wide range of ultrasound guided RA training during stage 2 [3]. It is too early to determine the effect of new curriculum on RA training locally and nationally, which needs further evaluation.