Training and assessment of medical interns using “direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS)” tool in obstetrics and gynecology

Abstract

1.1 Background: Internship programme for medical interns is designed with the aim of developing basic medical and surgical skills among graduates, so that they become competent to manage common illnesses and emergencies. Presently, medical interns are posted to the clinical departments, without adequate instructions on commonly performed procedures on patients, principles of asepsis and universal bio-safety measures. Training and assessment need was identified for interns in these subjects. 1.2 Methods: Hands on training programme was organized for interns that comprised of common procedures performed in wards, operation theatre and labour room on day to day basis. A pre and post test was performed to assess the gain in knowledge by interns. Subsequently, interns were directly observed by residents, nurses and faculty members in labour room, operation theatre and wards. The observations were documented, and immediate feedback was given to interns. Feedback from interns was obtained at the end of the rotation in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 1.3 Results: There was significant gain in knowledge by interns following training programme. Interns adopted good aseptic precautions and followed universal bio-safety measures during their clinical posting .Compliance to aseptic precautions was significantly more in female interns as compared to male. A demand got generated from other batches of interns in conducting similar training programme for them. Nurses, faculty members and co-ordinator of internship programme gave positive feedback about the changes observed in the batch of interns, who underwent training as compared to previous batches. 1.4 Conclusion: The training programme for medical interns on commonly performed procedures and surgical asepsis resulted in significant improvement in their performance. It is recommended to include these topics in internship orientation programme.