Senior surgeons as role models in the operating theatre: a thematic analysis through the lens of aristotelian ethics

BACKGROUND: Surgeons are commonly evaluated by surgical skills and outcomes rather than their character traits. We sought to examine role model behaviours of senior surgeons through the lens of Aristotelian (virtue) ethics. METHODS: Semi-structured focus group interviews were undertaken of anaesthetic trainees at a large university hospital NHS Foundation Trust and transcripts were subjected to thematic analysis to yield themes and subthemes. Participation of the trainees was entirely voluntary and focus groups were conducted using Zoom™. RESULTS: The overarching themes identified were ‘Teamwork makes the dream work’, ‘Captain of the ship’ and ‘Strong foundations’. CONCLUSION: We hope to take lessons learnt in conjunction with our previous work to help refocus surgical training towards a process of character reformation, rather than simply imparting technical skills to trainees.