WP6.10 - Factors Impacting Success in The Intercollegiate Membership of The Royal College of Surgeons Examinations

Abstract Aims We have witnessed within surgical training schools, that the attainment of the Intercollegiate Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons iMRCS examinations Part A and Part B continues to be one of the greatest challenges within core surgical training. This study aims to explore a trainee’s examination experience and factors influencing success and examination challenges. Methods A voluntary electronic survey including demographic factors, preparation specific approaches and adjuncts, challenges and barriers was sent to Northern Ireland core surgical trainees. Results were correlated with their examination outcomes. The results were collated using Microsoft excel software. Statistical analysis was completed using SPSS and thematic analysis of free text responses carried out. Results Twenty-seven trainees responded to the survey. The modal age category was 25-34 years with a male to female preponderance of 16 males to 11 females. English language was the first language of 60% of respondents. Statistical significance was demonstrated between age and first-time pass rate in the Part B. No statistical significance was demonstrated between first time pass rate and gender, English language, or background. Forty eight percent of those surveyed attributed personal attitude as a major contributor to success. Conclusion Those who undertook Part A closer to foundation training appeared to require fewer attempts to be successful in Part A, and the hours of preparation and study undertaken, correlated to feeling of preparedness. Part B success correlated to clinical experience.