A 55-Word Story Narrative Medicine Workshop to Promote Reflective Practice Among Internal Medicine Residents.

Introduction: Engaging in reflective practice is a critical component of training resident physicians toward competency in clinic practice, yet opportunities to engage in it are rare. To be effective practicing clinicians, residents must be able to reflect on and learn from their clinical work. Methods: One 60-minute 55-word story reflective writing workshop was delivered to 3 groups of second- and third-year internal medicine residents as part of a mandatory curriculum. Results: Each session was led by 2 facilitators with varying levels of training in health humanities. Sixty-one residents completed the workshop, and 54 of them completed a postworkshop survey (89% response rate). All respondents enjoyed the session, and 87% found that the session improved their connection to colleagues. Eighty-two percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the workshop improved their well-being. Ninety-four percent found the session valuable. Ninety-eight percent agreed or strongly agreed that the workshop offers a safe space to process emotionally distressing and/or difficult experiences related to patient care. Seventy-five percent agreed or strongly agreed that the session improved their understanding of their role within a health care team. Discussion: This workshop is an accessible way to incorporate reflective practice into a busy resident curriculum. The facilitated close reading and writing of 55-word stories offered a safe and effective way for residents to process emotionally distressing experiences, form greater connections with colleagues, deepen their understanding of their role as health care providers, and improve well-being.