Improving Gynecological Examination Skills with the Use of a Model

Overview

Vaginal, abdominal, and breast examinations are among the essential gynecological examination skills for midwifery students and are crucial steps that need to be learned. However, due to the privacy of genital areas, there are some debates regarding the teaching of these skills. Low-fidelity mannequins and models are particularly effective and cost-efficient in acquiring basic psychomotor skills. Thus, midwifery students can gain clinical experience, make mistakes in a safe environment, and enhance their skills. The sample of this study consists of 64 midwifery students (experimental=32, control=32) using a pre-test, post-test design with an observational randomized controlled trial. Data collection instruments include a Personal Information Form (PIF), Learner's Guide (LG), Self-Confidence Scale (SCS), and Self-Confidence in Learning Scale (SSSCLS. In the experimental group, after providing theoretical knowledge, students will receive practical training on a gynecological examination model, including bimanual examination, vaginal examination with a speculum, pap smear for cervical screening, and pelvic palpation. Each student will then perform the examination individually, with approximately 15 minutes allocated per student. Two weeks later, the same students will be asked to perform all examination steps again. During the examinations, the researcher will mark complete and incomplete procedures in the learner's guide, and any deficiencies will be explained to the students for completion. The CS and SSSLS will be administered for the post-test. In the control group, after theoretical knowledge is provided, students will be shown visual and video demonstrations of the steps of a gynecological examination. The PIF and SCS will be administered for the pre-test, and two weeks later, students will be asked to perform the examination steps in a laboratory setting, followed by the post-test.

Gynecological examination is an important step for women's health. Early diagnosis, treatment, intervention, and follow-up are the foundation of a healthy life. Midwives play an important role in maintaining women's health, especially in conducting detailed gynecological and obstetric evaluations. They should receive quality theoretical education and improve their practices. Practical training is important in learning, especially in the health field where models and simulation applications play a significant role in clinical practices. Therefore, clinical examination skills are sometimes taught to students using different materials, making it easier for students to learn medical knowledge and reducing the time spent on education. The aim of this planned study is to improve midwifery students' gynecological examination skills with model support.