Evaluation of Nursing Practice by the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)

Abstract

          This article aimed to summarize and share our knowledge in the evaluation of nursing practice using Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) because the ultimate goal of professional nursing program is to equip students with critical thinking skill, clinical decision-making, and effective application of theories into practice. In addition, the graduate needs to attain 6 skills set by the Thai Qualifications Framework for Higher Education, particularly nursing practice and accurate clinical decision-making. The evaluation of nursing practice using OSCE, a standard assessment encompassing evaluation of knowledge, practical skills and decision-making, is required. The evaluation method
requires an important principle, skill designation. The skill includes analyzing student learning outcomes, creating simulation situations relevant to skills required, creating/reviewing assessment forms, determining the appropriate exam location, team meeting to get teaching team, staff, and students aligned. The examination is divided into at least 2 sub-stations in each skill to be sufficient for the number of students. The OSCE is a good assessment method in practicum field to comprehensively evaluate students’ knowledge before moving to the higher year or graduation. In addition, the OSCE should be evaluated prior to the practicum training. The reason is to build confidence in nursing practice and to develop the necessary skills among students. Nursing students need to achieve nursing competency in accordance with the national higher education qualifications standards. Also, enhancement of appropriate nursing skills in accordance with learning standards and quality in nursing is required.