Abstract

Factors motivating �Clinical Training Associates� (CTAs) to work with medical students to teach pelvic examinations

Author(s): Ms Annette Burgess ,Dr Kirsten Black MBBS FRANZCOG

Background: Clinical Training Associates (CTAs) teach medical students the communication and technical skills to undertake a pelvic examination and Pap smear, whilst being examined themselves. At some clinical schools of The University of Sydney (Australia) there is a doctor present in the room and at others the CTAs run the sessions alone.

Aim: To investigate the factors motivating the CTAs to take part in the teaching program and to discuss how their different roles in these sessions impact on their experience.

Methods: Eleven CTAs took part in focus group sessions that were recorded and transcribed. We use qualitative data analysis methods to undertake theme and content analysis.

Results: CTAs derived satisfaction from their role as a teacher, in creating a relaxed atmosphere, in promoting communication skills, in working as part of a team, from a sense that they were doing something good for society and from attainment of new knowledge. The women felt that these rewards were somewhat diminished when they were employed in a more passive role as the “sample patient” compared to leading the teaching with another CTA.

Conclusion: The CTAs’ motivation comes largely from intrinsic rewards. The women preferred to work in pairs without a medical presence in the room.