SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-A Simulation Curriculum to Train Residents in Dealing With Microaggressions in the Clinical Setting

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This document describes a simulation-based curriculum designed to help Internal Medicine residents recognize and respond to microaggressions in clinical settings. The authors note that microaggressions are common, contribute to physician burnout, and are rarely addressed through formal training.<br /><br />The project began with a presurvey of residents (57% response rate) to assess how often they experienced or witnessed microaggressions and how comfortable they felt responding to them. Results showed that gender, ethnic, and class microaggressions were frequently reported. Female trainees and under-represented minority trainees were more likely to experience these incidents. Fewer than 8% of trainees felt very comfortable addressing microaggressions they experienced or observed.<br /><br />To address this gap, the team created a virtual simulation workshop using four scenarios with standardized patients and faculty facilitators. Residents practiced responding to microaggressions in a safe environment, using a practice-and-feedback approach in small groups. A postsurvey found that trainees felt more confident and were more willing to address such situations after the workshop.<br /><br />Qualitative feedback suggested the training helped residents set boundaries, intervene earlier, and use specific phrases when confronted with disrespectful behavior.<br /><br />The authors conclude that simulation is an effective and innovative way to prepare trainees to manage microaggressions. Limitations included a low survey response rate and the fact that the simulation was virtual. Future plans include adding more wellness support and creating more complex scenarios, such as team-based encounters.

Asset Subtitle

Christiana S. Renner

Meta Tag

Author List Christiana S. Renner, Kristen E. Wong, Shannon A. Scielzo

Category Innovations

Concept Microaggressions

Concept Burnout

Concept Simulation Curriculum

Concept Internal Medicine Trainee

Concept Gender Microaggression

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization UT Southwestern Medical Center

Presenting Author Christiana S. Renner

Track Education

Keywords

microaggressions

internal medicine residents

simulation-based curriculum

clinical training

physician burnout

standardized patients

resident confidence

workplace discrimination

virtual simulation workshop

medical education

Microaggressions

Burnout

Simulation Curriculum

Internal Medicine Trainee

Gender Microaggression