A survey of the basic practical skills of final-year medical students in one UK medical school

Abstract

SUMMARY This article is concerned with the undergraduate teaching of nine basic practical skills. The authors have conducted the first survey of such skills in the UK since 1985. The level of attainment for phlebotomy and intravenous cannula insertion was good. However, attainment was poor for preparation and administration of intravenous antibiotics, preparing intravenous infusions and inserting naso-gastric tubes. Perceived confidence in performing these latter skills was greater than the level of practical experience obtained. A Medline search of the literature could not find any publications detailing the national availability of teaching, or the skills competence of students in the UK. The General Medical Council suggests only the most basic of skills need to be imparted before qualification; further skills should be taught in the pre-registration year. However, doubt remains as to whether this occurs reliably in practice.