A junior doctor led near-peer acute ENT/head and neck surgery workshop for medical students.

Background: Near-peer teaching (NPT) involves teaching by peers who are at a close, but not the same, level of training. This study investigated whether a novel surgical NPT workshop, designed and delivered by junior doctors using simulation models for acute otolaryngology conditions, improved the knowledge and confidence level of senior medical students. Methods: A one-day NPT workshop was held for medical students in their third year of a four-year postgraduate medical degree at the University of Notre Dame, Sydney, Australia. Four acute otolaryngology/head and neck surgery problems that might be encountered by junior doctors and require prompt management were chosen. These were post-operative neck swelling, epistaxis, and tracheostomy management (obstruction and bleeding). Six junior doctors facilitated didactic tutorials and practical skills training using models. Multiple choice question mini-tests and questionnaires were administered before and after the workshop to assess changes in students' knowledge and confidence in assessment, management, and practical skills. Results: The most common reason for participation was to acquire knowledge and practical skills (93.2 %). Mean correct MCQ mini-test knowledge scores increased significantly from 60 % pre-workshop to 83.9 % post-workshop ( Conclusion: NPT is an effective method for teaching medical students how to assess and manage acute otolaryngology/ENT surgery conditions that may present as emergencies for junior medical officers on the ward.