Skills training for senior registrars

Abstract

Newly appointed consultants in general adult and old age psychiatry were asked to rate how well their senior registrar (SR) training had prepared them for their first year's work as consultants. Training in 39 specific skills was assessed, 14 were rated poorly. In general terms SR training appeared satisfactory in four areas (clinical skills, teaching, research, working with groups) but deficient in three areas (general management, personal management, information technology). SR study days, courses, consultant supervision and ‘hands-on’ experience are all potential ways of improving training in these areas. Audit is necessary to ensure such changes are effective.