Impact of Early Clinical Exposure on Psychomotor Skills of Medical Students in Indian Medical Education Set Up

Abstract

Introduction: Most attempts at early clinical experiences have been confined to limited patient contact in
an introductory course on patient interviewing, a beginning physical examination skills course or elective
opportunities. Early clinical exposure (ECE) and the accompanying knowledge and skill development does
not replace the basic and clinical sciences but rather enriches and contextualises that learning and offers a
wider variety of teaching and learning methods.
Material and Methods: This Cross sectional study carried for three years duration. In the present study
820 students participated. Voluntarily participated students were randomly divided into two groups viz. ECE
exposed group (Group A) and Traditional teaching exposed group (Group B ) .We conducted Periodical
sessions (Each duration: 60 minutes). Objective Structured Practical Examination ( OSPE) tests were
conducted towards end of every session.
Results: Comparing OSPE test ECE session results with traditional teaching methods found statistically
significant in all colleges. (P value < 0.001) (Using Mann-Whitney Test) . We found , Module wise comparing
OSPE test ECE session results with traditional teaching methods found statistically significant in all modules
except Module number five (P value < 0.001 ) (Using Mann-Whitney Test)
Conclusion: From these results it can concluded that early clinical exposure is to be an important intervention
for improving psychomotor skills of medical students.