Fulfilment of learning objectives in obstetrics and gynaecology by students at Turku University and exchange students in other Nordic countries – a logbook study

Background In the Faculty of Medicine of Turku University, the obstetrics and gynaecology course takes place in the fifth academic year and can also be taken abroad as an exchange student. The aim of our study was to examine if the number of procedures performed during the course differed between students completing the course in Turku and those completing the course abroad.

Methods We compared self-completed logbooks and learning diaries between students taking the course in Turku and those taking the course in other Nordic countries in 2013–2018.

Results The mean number of procedures performed in Turku was higher in all categories except in participating in surgical procedures and in postpartum follow-up. Compared to the exchange students, those studying in Turku had performed somewhat more gynaecological examinations (15.1 vs 10.4) and substantially more obstetrical (11.7 vs 2.9) and ultrasound examinations (5.8 vs 0.9).

Conclusions It is necessary to keep track of attaining learning objectives to ensure a sufficient level of education. The logbook is a suitable tool for this. In our study, exchange students performed a moderate number of procedures. However, somewhat more procedures are performed in Turku. Medical studies should include sufficient practical training to ensure that graduating physicians have the skills needed in clinical work.

Sanna-Mari Manninen

Master of Social Services and Health Care, Midwife (YAMK), doctoral student

University of Turku and Metropolia University of Applied Sciences

Paula Tiitta (†)

Päivi Polo