Developing a student competency exam for hand therapy clinical experiences: A cross-sectional survey of hand therapists

Abstract

Study DesignCross-sectional survey design. IntroductionStudents pursuing hand therapy clinical rotations are expected to demonstrate foundational knowledge prior to the experience. Purpose of the StudyIdentify content that should be included on a potential competency exam for students pursuing hand therapy rotations from the perspectives of current hand therapists. MethodsThis questionnaire, devised from the Scope of Practice and Domains of Hand Therapy, was emailed to members of the American Society of Hand Therapists. Data was collected and analyzed with SurveyMonkey to determine descriptive statistics and frequency distributions. ResultsAll knowledge areas included in the survey were ranked important or very important. Knowledge areas with the highest responses of much importance were the range of motion assessments of the upper extremity, anatomy and physiology, and interpersonal skills and therapeutic communications. DiscussionHand therapy clinical instructors expect their students to demonstrate competency in relevant topics prior to starting their clinical experiences. A hand therapy competency exam addressing the valued knowledge areas may ensure students are prepared for the rigorous expectations of a hand therapy clinical rotation. ConclusionA competency test, including knowledge areas presented in this study, given to students before starting a specialty rotation, may ensure that the student has the foundational knowledge needed to succeed in a hand therapy setting, provide an understanding of students’ strengths and weaknesses, and help clinicians become more willing to accept students for hand therapy rotations.