Admission to medical schools in Sri Lanka: predictive validity of selection criteria.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the extent to which current selection criteria predict success in Sri Lanka's medical schools. METHODS: The study sample consisted of all students selected to all six medical schools in two consecutive entry cohorts. The aggregate marks of these students at the General Certificate of Education (GCE) Advanced Level examination, the district of entry, admission category, candidate type (school/private) and gender, were identified as entry point variables. Success in medical school was measured in four ways: the ability to pass the first summative examination and the final examination at the first attempt, and obtaining honours in either examination. Multivariate analysis using logistic regression was used to assess the extent to which these entry point factors predict variability in outcome measures. RESULTS: Aggregate scores among the 1740 students in the study sample ranged from 212 to 356, with a median of 285. The male:female ratio was 1.4:1. Private candidates (taking the examination for the third time) accounted for 22% of students. Being a school candidate, female and having a higher aggregate score, were the only independent predictors of success for all four outcome measures. The aggregate score alone accounted for only 1-7% of the variation in performance in medical school. CONCLUSIONS: Marks obtained at the A Level examination (the only academic criterion currently used for selection of medical students in Sri Lanka) is a poor predictor of success in medical school.

Pattern of formula feeding in the latter part of infancy: a preliminary survey.

The pattern of formula feeding in 111 infants between 5 and 12 months of age was studied by the use of a simple questionnaire filled in by the clinician during a consultation. Their growth pattern was noted by perusal of the weight-for-age chart, which forms part of the child health record sheet. Of the infants studied, 39 (35%) were on a starter formula, 39 (35%) were on an unmodified formula, 33 (30%) were on a special follow-on formula. The change over from starter formula to an unmodified or special follow-on formula was done at 6.9 months, which is later than recommended. Only 2 infants were on Lakspray, the cheapest unmodified formula. Growth faltering was seen in 70% of the infants studied and was apparently commoner in those on unmodified formula. Reconstitution of milk powder with water was done erroneously by 50% of the mothers, errors being most common in those using unmodified formula. Not providing a scoop inside the pack, and complex mixing instructions were the causes of error in reconstitution.