Comparing the effectiveness of simulation as adjuncts to standardized lectures, on the identification and reporting of intimidation during surgical clerkship: A mixed method randomized controlled trial

Background Intimidation constitutes a learning barrier for undergraduates and its reporting rate to authorities remains suboptimal. Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of three interventions designed to increase reporting by undergraduates during their surgical rotation. As adjuncts to a standardized lecture, participants were assigned to a simulated intimidation scenario, a video of intimidation events, or a control group. Surveys were completed before the interventions, and at the end of the rotation. Results Of the 119 included participants, 17.6% reported that they had been intimidated during their previous rotation as compared to 37.0% after the surgical rotation. There were no statistically significant differences in the reporting of intimidation between the groups. However, 65.5% of all participants declared feeling more at ease to report intimidation, yet the reporting rate remained low. Conclusion Intimidation during clerkship persists as a frequent problem although the best method to increase its reporting remains unclear.