Published in:
01-11-2020 | Paraphimosis | Original Article
Designing and assessing a urethral catheter skills workshop for intern doctors in a university teaching hospital
Published in: Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -) | Issue 4/2020
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Background
Urethral catheterisation (UC) is a frequently performed medical procedure and catheter-related injuries can lead to significant morbidity for patients. The aims of this study are to assess interns’ exposure to UC and to design, implement and assess a structured UC skills workshop for hospital interns.
Methods
A 10-item anonymous questionnaire on UC was distributed to interns in two university teaching hospitals. Respondents were invited to participate in a skills workshop. Teaching methods for correct UC technique included a lecture, a video tutorial and a simulated patient model. Participants’ catheter insertion skills were assessed using a 20-item OSCE checklist when the UC workshop concluded.
Results
In total, 40 interns completed the initial questionnaire of whom 26 (65%) had not received any dedicated catheter skills training prior to commencing internship. Fourteen (35%) were unsupervised during their first UC. Fifteen (37%) interns attended the dedicated skills workshop. All interns found the workshop beneficial and 12 (80%) reported an improvement on confidence afterwards. Following the workshop, the mean (± standard deviation) catheter insertion OSCE score was 92% (± 14.1).
Conclusions
Interns have a lack of knowledge, experience and confidence with catheter insertion. Current training models are deficient. The introduction of a structured skills workshop may help to improve catheter insertion skills among interns.