Exploring Medical Students’ and Graduates’ perspectives on Learning in the Emergency Department: A Thematic Analysis

Abstract

Background: The emergency department (ED) is a critical yet stressful environment for medical students to acquire essential skills of medicine. Proper training in the ED, while balancing the demands of patient care and education is crucial. This study aimed to explore students› and graduates' perspectives on their learning experiences in the ED at Yazd University of Medical Sciences in 2024.Methods: A qualitative approach, involving semi-structured interviews with 22 participants (16 students and 6 medical graduates) was used. Participants entered the study by purposive sampling. Thematic analysis using the six steps proposed by Braun and Clarke was employed to identify and analyze key themes and concepts from the interviews. Data were validated based on Guba and Lincoln's criteria. Data analysis was performed using MAXQDA-10 software.Results: The results indicated the emergence of four themes and 10 concepts. They included: (1) learning preferences, emphasizing the need for innovative teaching strategies and simulation-based learning; (2) curricular preferences, highlighting the importance of supervised clinical shifts and comprehensive training in acute care; (3) clinical experience, which revealed a desire for more hands-on practice, opportunities for decision-making, team collaboration; and (4) learning environment, addressing stressors, the physical environment and the need for supportive peer interactions.Conclusion: Participants had a positive impression of their learning experience and believed that it has potential for further development; however, they felt a gap between their educational needs and the existing ED training structure. By fostering collaboration, providing structured supervision, and incorporating simulation-based learning, the educational experience in the ED could significantly improve. Ultimately, this prepares students for the complexities of emergency medicine more effectively.