Abstract:

An ethnographic study was conducted among medical students during their first contact with inpatients in a public medical school in Rio de Janeiro as part of their course on Basic Clinical Skills (BCS). This article presented the interim results from interviews in which the students responded to questions on the physician-patient relationship and their impressions on BCS. There were no refusals to participate, and students answered the questions by writing their feelings about teachers and patients, while men focused mainly on scientific and pedagogical issues involving the course contents. Nevertheless, both groups reported a Strong bond with the professor. Good relationships were reported as a powerful source of motivation for studying and improving professional skills, where the professor serves as a father figure. Meanwhile, difficulties in relations with professors were reported as a source of depression and discouragement both for studying and establishing good relationships with patients. Some answers revealed disrespectful procedures towards patients by instructors and students, identifying these events as bad examples in medical education. The limited time devoted to return examinations with the same patients in the wards was criticized as a negative factor in the process of learning how to accompany patients and provide more human care. These critical comments came from approximately 50% of the interviewees. The study concludes that even if 50% of students report no problems in the teaching hospital´s relational environment, attention should be given to students’ criticism in order to improve ethical procedures during their training.

Key-words:
Education, Medical; Physician-patient relationship; Basic Clinical Skills; Curriculum