Enhancing Psychomotor Skills in Medical Interns: An Evaluation of Training Methods

Background: Proficiency in psychomotor skills is crucial for medical interns transitioning from theoretical knowledge to practical application. Traditional teaching methods often lack sufficient hands-on experience and critical feedback, resulting in procedural errors and increased healthcare costs. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the Demonstrate-Observe-Assist-Perform (DOAP) method in teaching urinary male bladder catheterization (MBC). Methods: A clinical descriptive longitudinal study was conducted with 40 intern doctors. Participants were initially assessed on traditional urinary catheterization method in male patients. The DOAP method was then employed, involving demonstration, observation, assistance and supervised performance. After three weeks of training and supervised performance, participants were re-evaluated using direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS) method with checklists and questionnaires tool. Statistical analysis performed and compared preand post-training proficiency. Results: Significant improvements were observed post-DOAP training. Awareness of critical steps increased from 67.5% to 97.5% (p=0.001), confidence in performing MBC rose from 70% to 95% (p=0.003) and understanding of the 'No Touch technique' improved from 82.5% to 100% (p=0.012). Faculty evaluations showed enhanced ability to perform MBC with all critical steps from 20% to 82.5% (p=0.000) and increased counselling skills from 52.5% to 92.5% (p=0.000). Conclusion: The DOAP method significantly enhances the psychomotor skills of intern doctors, improving both knowledge, practical performance and communication skills. Integrating DOAP into medical training programs is recommended to enhance clinical competence and patient care quality.