24 Enhancing teaching quality and frequency: the introduction of ‘bitesize’ palliative care resources for medical students on placement

<h3>Background</h3> A survey of doctors at St Gemma’s Hospice revealed that 80% struggled to balance teaching students with clinical demands, and 60% lacked appropriate teaching resources or clarity on relevant topics. Addressing these challenges, a quality improvement project (QIP) introduced ‘bitesize’ resources designed for time-constrained clinical environments, aiming to increase teaching delivery and students’ understanding of palliative care. <h3>Method</h3> Nine ‘bitesize’ teaching resources were created, focusing on symptom management, end-of-life care, and prescribing. These resources were reviewed by palliative medicine leads at The University of Leeds, ensuring alignment with core learning objectives. Folders containing the resources were made accessible. Student confidence was assessed after each session, and additionally at placement completion. Eight weeks post-implementation, feedback was gathered from doctors to evaluate the resources’ usefulness. Based on the qualitative data collected, further training sessions were conducted to encourage use of the resources. The project has been expanded to two additional hospices, and a second cycle of the QIP is being completed. <h3>Results</h3> During the first cycle, 14 students completed placements at St Gemma’s. After 24 sessions, all students reported improved confidence and found the sessions beneficial. Feedback from 10 students showed that 100% received ‘bitesize’ teaching on at least 2 out of 4 days, with 30% receiving daily sessions. All agreed the resources helped address knowledge gaps and tailor learning to their needs. Doctors also reported the resources were useful and helped balance teaching with clinical pressures. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Qualitative data confirmed ‘bitesize’ teaching resources benefited both doctors and students. Feedback indicated that 100% of students improved their confidence in palliative care topics after the sessions. While the initial results were positive, further efforts are needed to encourage consistent use among all doctors. The second cycle of the QIP is now underway in two additional hospices after the introduction of training sessions.