Curriculum Innovations: Implementation of a Targeted Longitudinal Rotation to Enhance Direct Ophthalmoscopy Learning for Neurology Residents
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background and Objectives: Direct ophthalmoscopy (DO) is a core diagnostic skill for neurology residents. Although the importance of DO is accepted among neurology faculty and residents, proficiency in DO has declined because of limited training opportunities. The objectives of this study were to (1) provide neurology residents with supervised and unsupervised DO practice, (2) improve their competency and confidence in performing DO, and (3) develop a curriculum model adaptable to residencies with limited neuro-ophthalmology exposure. Methods: A longitudinal, practice-based optometry or ophthalmology elective was implemented at 2 neurology residency programs, guided by Kern's 6-step approach to curriculum development. The rotation included both supervised and graduated independent practice. Residents completed anonymized pre-rotation and post-rotation questionnaires measuring confidence in performing DO and underwent objective skills assessments to measure competence in DO. Results: = 0.006). Residents who performed 50 or more undilated DO examinations and those who were confident in finding the optic disc were more likely to incorporate DO into their clinical practice. Discussion: Integrating an optometry or ophthalmology rotation into neurology residencies enhanced both subjective confidence and objective competence in DO, underscoring the importance of deliberate, structured practice in mastering diagnostic examination skills. Incorporation of self-regulated learning techniques and user-friendly technology may further enhance curricular efficacy. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of adopting this curriculum across various residency programs, particularly those that recognize the value of fundoscopic examination but lack adequate training opportunities.
Source: Neurology Education
Language: English
Subfield: Ophthalmology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4414007117