Developing professional clinical skills for practice - the results of a feasibility study using a reflective approach to intimate examination.

OBJECTIVES: To develop a student-selected component (SSC) for junior medical students, to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating the development of skills in carrying out an intimate examination, whilst developing professional thinking skills using a reflective approach.

SUBJECTS: The student selected component was designed for a maximum of 6 students over a 4-week period in Phase 2 (year 2 and 3) of the undergraduate medical curriculum.

SETTING: The Clinical Skills Centre, the Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Scotland, UK.

METHODS: The SSC consisted of a weekly patient clerking from the ward, an analysis of the clinical and communication skills for any intimate examinations the patient would require, and practice using simulators and simulated patients. Students were supported by timed periods of structured reflection, which enabled them to discuss ethical issues and their own professional conduct related to carrying out an intimate examination. The SSC was evaluated on 3 levels; student satisfaction, learning professional thinking using a reflective approach, and observing behaviour change in relation to skill development, using a ward simulation exercise.

RESULTS: The evaluation at the levels of student satisfaction, learning professional thinking and changes in behaviour associated with intimate examination demonstrated that the SSC had been well received by the students, who felt they had improved their skills in intimate examinations in the context of a ward simulation exercise, in parallel with their professional thinking skills.

CONCLUSION: It is possible to develop the professional thinking of junior medical students at the same time as developing their technical competence in relation to intimate examinations. It may be advantageous to introduce students early to this reflective approach, using simulation to promote the integration of theory with practice.