Evaluation of the Workplace-Based Assessment Anaesthesia-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (A-CEX) and Its Role in the Royal College of Anaesthetists 2021 Curriculum

The workplace-based assessment (WPBA) Anaesthesia-Clinical Evaluation Exercise (A-CEX) is used in anaesthetic training in the Royal College of Anaesthetists 2021 curriculum. WBPAs are part of a multimodal approach to assess competencies, but can be limited by their granularity. They are an essential component of assessment and are used in both a formative and summative capacity. The A-CEX is a form of WBPA which evaluates knowledge, behaviours and skill of anaesthetists in training across a variety of ‘real world’ situations. An entrustment scale is assigned to the evaluation which has implications for future practice and ongoing supervision requirements. Despite being a key component in the curriculum the A-CEX has drawbacks. Its qualitative nature results in variation in feedback provided amongst assessors, which may have ongoing implications for clinical practice. Furthermore, the completion of an A-CEX can be viewed as a ‘tick box' exercise and does not guarantee that learning has taken place. Currently no direct evidence exists as to the benefit of the A-CEX in anaesthetic training, but extrapolated data from other studies may show validity. However, the assessment remains a key part of the 2021 curriculum, Future areas for consideration include education for those assessing trainees via A-CEX, altering the matrix of assessment to a less granular approach and a longitudinal study as to the utility of A-CEX in anaesthetics training.