Abstract
Introduction
In our hospital, 40% of Foundation Year 1 (FY1) doctors reported a lack of confidence in geriatric medicine. To address this gap for new doctors starting in geriatrics, an FY1 Doctors Handbook for Geriatrics was developed. This need was identified during a baseline survey to understand the starting point of the quality improvement work, with the aim of increasing FY1 confidence and preparedness in geriatric medicine.
Methods
The handbook was created collaboratively with members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT), including outgoing FY1 doctors, registrars, consultants, pharmacists, and therapy teams. This ensured content that was comprehensive, practical, and aligned with clinical guidelines relevant to FY1 responsibilities. The handbook covered social and collateral histories, mental capacity assessments, DNAR decisions, blood test sets for common geriatric presentations, pharmacy tips, outpatient referrals, acronyms, terminology, and further resources relevant to geriatrics to support learning. The main aim was to identify knowledge gaps, develop the handbook collaboratively, collect structured feedback, and refine it in response to feedback received.
Results
The handbook received very positive feedback from FY1 doctors, with 100% finding it relevant to their job responsibilities. It was praised for clarity, usability, and comprehensive coverage of essential topics in geriatric care. Feedback highlighted areas for improvement, such as expanding sections on specific conditions such as delirium, polypharmacy and common therapy needs.
Conclusions
The FY1 Doctors Handbook for Geriatrics significantly enhances junior doctors' proficiency in managing elderly patients by serving as an easy initial reference guide. As an ongoing quality improvement project (QIP), it will continue to evolve based on feedback, ensuring its value in geriatric education and practice within our hospital. A key lesson was the value of input from MDT members in creating a more holistic and sustainable guide, which will aim to be updated annually with input from outgoing FY1s.
Comments
A practical approach for impactful learning
This effort shows an approach of impactful way to help guide the juniors to have better understanding while working in geriatric medicine.