Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Impact on Medical Students Knowledge of Plastic Surgery Emergencies?

ABSTRACT

Aim: The aim of this study was to look at the teaching and knowledge of plastic surgery emergencies and referral criteria in medical students from 3rd to 5th year. Method: 400 students were sent a survey via email and invited to participate 278 replied (69.7%). Students were asked 20 questions including demographics, if they were interested in surgery/ED, if they had teaching in B+P and what type, if there was clinical exposure, how to classify TBSA and factors deciding considered in classifying the burn, if they were confident to treat a burn, when to make a referral and burn mechanisms, common complications of burns, what is a flap and types and how to assess, what a plastic surgeon does. Results: 58% (161) declared an interest in surgery or ED, 32% (88) had teaching in B+P with 63% (252) attending a lecture and 5% (13) a formal Placement, others were adhoc and 21% (59) had clinical exposure. 74% (205) identified depth as important, 42% (117) TBSA. 58% (161) could not classify TBSA, 97% (271) did not feel confident treating a burn + only 8% (32) knowing when to refer although most could identify mechanisms. 92% (368) knew infection was a complication but only 1 knew why smoking was contraindicated. 1 student knew what a flap was with non able to classify or assess. few could identify what B+P do. Conclusions: There is a lack of consistent undergraduate education on plastic emergencies and knowledge, perhaps resulting from less experience from cancelled placement.