Evaluation of Knowledge Levels of Turkish Emergency Medicine Residents by a Theoretical Exam

Objective: In this study, our goal was to assess the theoretical levels of knowledge of emergency medicine residents, to determine the subjects that they are more successful and less successful in, and to compare the levels of knowledge of residents in university and training/research hospitals; by evaluating the results of a general examination that was set for the residents of emergency medicine throughout Turkey. Material and Methods: The examination results of a total number of 30 training/research hospitals and university hospitals that agreed to take the examination were analysed. The results of training/research hospitals and university hospitals were compared regarding distribution of main topics. Results: A total of 320 residents participated in the examination, of whom 207 (64.7%) were working in university hospitals and 113 (35.3%) were in training and research hospitals. According to results, there was statistically significant difference between university hospitals and training hospitals in some subgroups (pediatric emergencies, gynecologic emergencies, internal medicine), however the number of correct answers did not vary. Conclusion: Widespread increase in academic emergency departments necessitate standardization of educational efforts. Emergency medicine residents should be directed according to appropriate guidelines in this area. (JAEM 2013; 12: 30-2)