Journal Article

P32 Ensuring sp safety during invasive optometry assessments

Kaff, S

2017

Overview

Background At our institution, we hold OSCEs for Internationally Educated Optometrists, for which Standardised Patients are used. The stations involve invasive optometric procedures; as such, the SPs' safety is paramount. We have developed a process to ensure SP safety and comfort throughout the training and examination process. While standardisation is at the forefront of any assessment, SP safety is of greatest importance during Optometry OSCEs. In this session, we will present the methods that have been developed for ensuring SP safety during the assessments. Outcomes The methods we have developed over the last 3 years of conducting the optometry assessment have ensured that the SPs are safe during interactions with candidates. While the SPs are screened before recruitment, they may still have different reactions to the methods used by the candidates during the assessment. Our exam day processes are as such that these reactions are limited or non-existent. As of May 2017, we have had no major incidents or injuries to the SPs. Conclusion Over the last two years of this assessment, we have found that different procedures require different safeguards for the SPs. What we have developed has been instrumental in protecting the SPs as well as providing a valid and reliable assessment for the candidates.

• Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group LTD
• Subject: Optometry