Document Type : Original Article
Abstract
Background: Case-based education and problem-based learning are common teaching and learning methods in clinical wards. The aim of this study was to combine these two methods to improve interns' satisfaction of learning the approach to common complaints in medical curriculum.
Methods: In this study, some of common clinical problems in the syllabus of general practitioner curriculum was educated with adherence to problem by designing appropriate cases (case-based). The cases were designed and presented in small group discussions with step-by-step limited and controlled approach to cases and providing feedbacks by the faculty and prepare opportunities for reflection. The survey was evaluation of the interns' satisfaction by a Questionnaire.
Results: Among 65 interns who completed the survey, more than three-quarters were fully satisfied with the impact of this training method in approach to the patient complaints. The training program encouraged 80% of interns to obtain accurate vital sign in the patient with dyspnea.
Conclusion: The method of combining problem-based learning with case-based education is effective according to interns' opinion about improving their attitude in approach to the patients' problem and can be used as an attractive tool in clinical education. This time-consuming method requires experienced faculty members proportionate to increasing the number of medical students.