Direct Observation of Procedural Skills
From WardWiki - Foundation Doctor Helper
A Direct Observation of Procedural Skills or DOPs is an important assessment for foundation doctors. This article is to complement advice already available and in no way seeks to duplicate nor critique the existing literature. Comprehension of indications and technique are evaluated alongside pre-procedural preparation and post-procedural care. Seeking appropriate help from colleagues and communication are assessed together with an overall assessment of ability to perform the task.
Contents |
Assessment format
A procedure chosen from an approved list is performed in the presence of the assessor. These can be procedures required for acute admissions or ward based procedures as they arise.
Choosing the assessor
Find a suitable senior doctor or nurse and ask them to observe. It is sad and irritating that so many are quick to expect that they see a history and examination performed yet so unwilling to give up the time to do so. This is selfish and harmful and one must sadly persevere. Avoid locums as assessors unless it is clear they are willing to help, their time is limited and many well meant promises have gone to waste. Senior members of one's own team are far more useful and more familiar with guidance for DOPs
Planning the caseload
Make no attempt to rely on last minute assessments, a cadre of desperate flagging foundation doctors tread the wards in June and assessors will have little time and patients to help then. Developing a social circle with senior doctors and nurses is one of way of gently encouraging them to help more and this should be sought early.
Ideal cases
Choose a simple case such as an admission where any questions asked should be answerable. Time is limited and it is far more important to find a suitable but uninteresting case rather than looking for the obscure.
Performing a lying standing blood pressure
Insertion of a urinary catheter
Preparation of intravenous infusion
Incision and drainage of a non pilonidal, non perianal abscess
Links
http://www.foundationprogramme.nhs.uk/pages/home/training-and-assessment
