Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS)

The Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) is a structured assessment tool used to evaluate a practioner’s technical and procedural competencies in real-time clinical settings. It involves an assessor directly observing a healthcare professional performing a specific procedure and providing immediate feedback based on predefined criteria such as technical skill, patient safety, communication, and professionalism.

The purpose of a DOPS is to ensure that clinicians, including those in advanced practice roles, can perform procedures safely, effectively, and in line with best practices. It supports skill development, identifies areas for improvement, and helps maintain high standards of patient care. DOPS assessments are commonly used in clinical training, competency frameworks, and professional revalidation to promote continuous learning and safe practice in procedural skills.

Use this template to:

✔️ Evaluate your own decision making, reasoning and application of skills

✔️ Record your progress and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) on the Centre for Advancing Practice Portal