The Art of Medicine

Simulation and Procedures 

Internal Medicine residents are trained to perform necessary procedures under close supervision. Training methods include a combination of didactics, video media, simulation and hands-on experience. Residents have the opportunity to train with staff physicians, nurses and respiratory therapists to develop expertise in procedural techniques. The department has an ever growing armamentarium of the latest technology to enhance training effectiveness and realism including portable ultrasound and mannequin models for central venous access.

Simulation Center and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) 

Improving safety for patients is our number one priority. We have developed a state-of-the-art Simulation Center equipped with modern technologies to promote, teach, evaluate, and certify both clinical and procedural skills of a physician.

OSCE is a valid, reliable, and practical tool to teach and evaluate clinical skills of students and residents. In an OSCE, the clinical competency to be tested is broken down into its various components, including taking a history, examining a particular organ system, communicating specific information to a patient and coming to a conclusion on the basis of the findings. During the exercise, the resident rotates through a number of stations. A faculty member observes the performance in each station. At the end of the task, the examiner gives instant feedback to the resident. If necessary, correct technique is demonstrated. The standardized patient is trained to evaluate critical aspects of resident’s performance in interpersonal skills and to provide feedback.

American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation’s Choosing Wisely Project

Choosing Wisely is an initiative of the American Board of Internal Medicine Foundation to help physicians and patients engage in conversations designed to reduce overuse of tests and procedures, and support the physician’s efforts to help patients make smart and effective care choices. It aims to promote care supported by evidence -- not duplication of other tests or procedures already received -- free from harm and truly necessary.

About 60 leading medical specialty societies along with Consumer Reports and 15 consumer-oriented organizations have joined the Choosing Wisely campaign to help disseminate information and educate patients about making wise decisions.

The Department of Medicine and the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Saint Peter's have embraced the Choosing Wisely campaign and incorporated its recommendations in all educational activities.