Essential Direct Observational Procedural Skills (DOPS)

All students are required to complete the following essential Direct Observational Procedural Skills (DOPs) by the end of the programme.

In Year 1 of the programme, students are required to complete a minimum of 4 essential DOPS from the following lists.

Take baseline physiological observations (measure temperature, respiratory rate, pulse rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturations and urine output) and record and interpret appropriately.
Perform surgical scrubbing up.

Perform venepuncture.
Perform intravenous cannulation.
Perform arterial blood gas (ABG) and acid base sampling from the radial artery in adults and be able to interpret results.
Take blood for culture of infectious organisms.
Measure capillary blood glucose.
Explain to patient how to perform peak expiratory flow, assess that it is performed adequately and interpret results.
Perform a urine multi dipstick test and be able to interpret results.
Perform a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and be able to interpret results.
Take and/or instruct patients how to take a swab.
Perform a male and female urinary catheterisation.
Perform manual handling safely.

The following desirable DOPS can be undertaken by the student if the opportunity arises.

Commence and manage nebulised therapy.
Set up an infusion.
Use local anaesthetics in different forms (topical, subcutaneous, infiltration, urethral).
Prepare and administer intravenous medication.

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