Techniques for Teaching Procedures

This module identifies three key components to demonstrate competency in a skill and provides two techniques for teaching procedural skills. 

Key Takeaways

Checking Learner Preparation

Before attempting a procedure with a learner, identify their preparedness in order to maximize success. Using checklists such as this can help review important aspects of a procedure ahead of time:

• Indications: why is the procedure being done?
• Contraindications: are there any contraindications? 
• Materials: what materials are needed?
• Inform Patient: what does the patient need to know?
• Technique: how is the procedure done?
• Complications: what problems can develop?
• Interpretation: how do you assess the procedure?

Peyton's Four-Step Approach

A recent method for teaching procedural skills was presented by Walker and Peyton, called the Peyton's Four-Step Approach:

• Demonstrate: have the student watch a video or live performance of the procedure without comment.
• Deconstruct: the instructor discusses steps while watching video or reviewing other online resources.
• Formulate: learner verbalizes steps prior to procedure.
• Perform: learner performs procedure while verbalizing steps.