Changing trends in assessment: Effectiveness of Direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) as an assessment tool in anesthesiology postgraduate students

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: National Medical commission of India (NMC) has introduced Competency based Medical Education (CBME) following the international trend. Competency based assessment differs from traditional assessment and we need to adopt to newer work place-based assessments (WPBA). Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) is one such assessment tool, which assesses procedural skills of a student. Hence this study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of DOPS among Anesthesiology postgraduate students. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A prospective interventional study was conducted, where in 55 postgraduate students underwent DOPS assessment while performing three routine core skills of Anesthesiology. Observations were documented (Pre-DOPS-Score) and immediate verbal feedback was given. Students were educated through demonstration of all three procedures on actual patients by three faculty members using the DOPS checklist. The students were finally assessed again with proforma and DOPS scores were documented (Post-DOPS Score). Mean Pre-DOPS and Post-DOPS assessment Scores were compared. Student and faculty Perceptions were taken regarding the DOPS assessment. RESULTS: There was significant improvement in the procedural skill performance after DOPS with a statistically significant difference. Average time taken for DOPS test was 11 min. Average time taken for giving feedback was 13 min. Students and faculty members gave positive feedback about DOPS. CONCLUSION: DOPS is very feasible and effective assessment tool, improves procedural skills of Anaesthesiology postgraduate students, helps to develop good clinical skills which finally brings good clinical care.