A survey of foundation dentists' experiences of clinical audit. Br Dent J 2024; 237: 929-933. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-024-8155-4

This article explores the current perception of 231 foundation dentists (FDs) towards clinical audits (CAs) in the West and East Midlands as well as East of England. An anonymous survey was implemented to analyse the effectiveness of audit teaching and demonstrate key areas requiring improvement. The five themes explored were resources, support, planning, delivery and outcomes. Despite an underwhelming response rate of just 17%, results attained proved to be insightful:

Resources: Most FDs (65%) relied on undergraduate resources when planning CAs, implying potential barriers exist regarding postgraduate resources. Useful recommendations such as a virtual resource library were mentioned to improve access to resources

Support: Almost half of FDs reported feeling supported by a preparatory tutorial before undertaking CAs. However, an overwhelming majority (70%) agreed that clear guidance on available resources and previous audit examples would enhance their readiness to undertake CAs

Planning: The majority of FDs (70%) consulted with their educational supervisor (ES) when choosing an audit topic. Additionally, nearly half chose topics targeting an issue in the dental practice. The general consensus was most FDs did not struggle choosing an audit topic, with only 15% finding it challenging

Delivery: Moreover, other significant challenges encountered were data collection, study design and time constraints. In order to overcome these challenges and successfully deliver CAs, suggestions were raised for better guidance and support, more examples, less time restrictions, and assistance with data collection

Outcomes: Positive outcomes were identified from undertaking CAs as two-thirds of FDs enjoyed improving patient care, nearly half of FDs enjoyed data analysis and one-third were fond of team engagement. FDs appreciated gaining experience by undertaking CAs and quality improvement projects. Furthermore, 63% felt confident conducting future audits, with only 3% feeling ill-equipped.