Development and progression through training is influenced by a range of factors: the work environment, leadership and management, work design, significant life events, anxiety, stress and depression...to name but a few.
Through 1:1 confidential, bespoke support the Professional Support Unit (PSU) can help identify obstacles and solutions, work together to put an action plan in place and maintain supportive contact to assist with the plan. Trainees can use the PSU as many times as they need during training - we're here to listen impartially, and support objectively.
Managing trainee performance
Do's and don'ts
- Be prepared to take immediate action once aware of concerns.
- Ask for documented evidence from relevant colleagues and team members.
- Speak to the trainee and document the meeting.
- Consider appropriate assessments to gain information e.g. MSF
- Feedback is very important; the trainee must be aware that issues have been raised.
- Do not deal with difficult scenarios on your own; ask a colleague to attend the meeting with you.
- Educational supervisor report is vital for informing progression of trainee.
- Do not wait for the next annual review to raise issues - 'No surprises' at annual review (ARCP).
Signs and triggers
Is your trainee demonstrating any of the following?
- anger
- rigidity/ being obsessive
- emotionality
- absenteeism
- failure to answer bleeps
- poor time keeping or personal organisation
- poor record-keeping
- lack of insight
- lack of judgement
- unaware of limitations
- clinical mistakes
- failing exams
- discussing a career change
- communication problems with patients, relatives, colleagues or staff.
Have there been complaints from patients or staff about any of the following?
- bullying
- arrogance
- rudeness
- lack of team working (e.g. isolation; unwilling to cover for colleagues)
- undermining colleagues (e.g. criticising or arguing in public/ in front of patients)
- inability to prioritise
- defensive reactions to feedback
- verbal or physical aggression
- erratic or volatile behaviour
- attitude problems.
Have there been issues with any of the following?
- frequent sick leave (Mondays and Fridays especially)
- over or under motivation
- change of physical appearance.