The objectives and goals of this rotation are that the resident:

1. Understands the scientific method as it applies to basic and clinical research.
2. Knows how to access the literature including computerized and conventional library searches.
3. Is able to interpret published material critically.
4. Understands the role of statistics in validating scientific inferences, including the appropriate application of statistical tests commonly used in the thoracic literature, their limitations and deficiencies.
5. Understands the ethical components of surgical practice.
6. Understands and will be able to use clinical database and outcome analysis in surgical practice.
7. Knows the medico-legal aspects of surgical practice.
8. Understands critical pathways and cost-benefit analysis in clinical decision-making.
9. Understand organizational structure and mechanics of solo practice, group specialty practice, multi-specialty practice, and academic practice.
10. Knows the structure, responsibilities and requirements of managed care, capitation payment, contractual agreements, physician-hospital organizations, and independent practice agreements.
11. Understands the time constraints imposed by the responsibilities of practice and the need for effective time management.
12. Understands the role of power, significance, and sample size in interpreting data.
13. Knows how to develop and design a research proposal and complete the process of solving a problem scientifically.
14. Reads published material and listens to presentations critically.
15. Demonstrates understanding of the essential steps of the research process by preparing and submitting a manuscript for publication in a peer-reviewed journal or gives a presentation at Grand Rounds which meets the satisfaction of his/her teachers. Either an oral and a written presentation are appropriate.
16. Demonstrates competence by:
    • Defining an analyzable problem or scientific question.
    • Assembling an appropriate literature review.
    • Synthesizing and analyzing available data.
    • Formulating an informed and insightful discussion.
    • Composing a properly constructed, critically reviewed bibliography or list of literature citations.
17. Shows an understanding of the appropriate application of statistical tests to the problem.
18. Demonstrates an understanding of the appropriate application of other commonly used statistical tests such as univariate analysis, multivariate analysis, analysis of variance, and the use of T-tests for paired data and multiple comparisons. (Residents should know the limitations, deficiencies and proper applications of these commonly used statistical tests).
19. Shows evidence of ability to critically analyze major clinical research papers in the thoracic literature which guide practice.
20. Applies knowledge of the scientific method to design and execute at least one formal analysis to solve a problem related to cardiothoracic surgery.