EVALUATION OF JUNIOR DOCTOR HAND EXAMINATION SKILLS

BackgroundPatients with hand injuries frequently present to Emergency Departments. The ability of junior doctors to perform an accurate clinical assessment is crucial in initiating appropriate management.ObjectivesTo assess the adequacy of junior doctor hand examination skills and to establish whether further training and education is required.MethodsA double-centre study was conducted using an anonymous survey assessing hand examination completed by junior doctors (Foundation year 1 and Senior House Officer grades) working in Trauma & Orthopaedics or Emergency Departments. The survey covered all aspects of hand examination including assessment of: Flexor and Extensor tendons, Nerves (motor and sensory) and Vascular status. Surveys were marked against answers pre-agreed with a Consultant hand surgeon.Results32 doctors completed the survey. Tendons: 59% could accurately examine extensor digitorum, 41% extensor pollicis longus, 38% flexor digitorum profundus and 28% flexor digitorum superficialis. Nerves – ...