CHEST Guidelines-Adult Bronchoscopy Training - Current State and Suggestions for the Future

Adult Bronchoscopy Training - Current State and Suggestions for the Future

Pdf Summary

The CHEST expert panel report addresses the variability and inconsistency in bronchoscopy training for adult pulmonology and thoracic surgery trainees. Currently, there are no universally accepted standards for assessing competency in bronchoscopy training, resulting in varied training outcomes across different programs. The report suggests a shift from a volume-based certification approach to a skill acquisition and knowledge-based competency assessment. This change involves incorporating multiple training tools, such as simulations, e-learning, lectures, and case reviews, which have all been shown to enhance learning and competency.<br /><br />The report recommends standardizing bronchoscopy training requirements across countries with comparable levels of medical care. It also encourages the integration of high-fidelity simulation in bronchoscopy teaching curriculums, with regional simulation centers accessible to all programs due to cost considerations.<br /><br />While bronchoscopy is a key procedure for pulmonologists, it's also important in thoracic surgery training. The American Board of Thoracic Surgery mandates a certain number of bronchoscopy procedures, but advanced therapeutic bronchoscopy skills require additional, structured training.<br /><br />The report emphasizes ongoing quality improvements post-initial skill acquisition and suggests that proficiency should be regularly evaluated. Although there are calls for more research and structured guidelines, the CHEST panel acknowledges that existing disparities in training suggest a need for better-validated methods of training and assessment.<br /><br />Ultimately, the report argues that adapting bronchoscopy training to include modern educational tools and a standardized approach across specialties would improve training efficacy and patient care outcomes. While these suggestions are consensus-based, they highlight the need for further research and development of robust training guidelines.

Keywords

bronchoscopy training

pulmonology

thoracic surgery

competency assessment

simulation

standardization

training tools

skill acquisition

quality improvement

educational tools