Philippine Journal of Surgical Specialties Vol. 66, No. 3, July-September 2011, pp 108-111

Performance Outcome of the Proficiency in Clinical Breast Examination (ProCBE) Module at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center – Breast Center

Author(s): Stephen Sixto Siguan, M.D., F.P.C.S.; Don Davy L. Guinto, M.D.; Roswitha Alfonsa M. Tauschek, R.N. and Saleshe Tracy Anne G. Baking, M.D.

Abstract:
Introduction:
The VSMMC Breast Center actively promotes the practice of monthly breast self-examination and annual clinical breast examination to aid in the early detection of breast cancer. The objective of this study was to determine the performance outcome (proportion of participants who passed) on the technical aspect of the proficiency in clinical breast examination (ProCBE) module at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center.

Methods:
The study is a retrospective analytical review designed to evaluate the proficiency in clinical breast examination program (ProCBE) done at VSMMC Breast Center. The participants’ skills on the technical aspect (Position, Perimeter/Pattern and Palpation/ Pressure) were evaluated through a return demonstration. Testing the difference between proportions using z-test was used for statistical analysis.

Results:
One hundred fifty-two participants were included in the ProCBE class which included medical doctors, medical interns, and registered nurses. In the positioning station, 87.3%, 86.4%, and 80.4% of doctors, interns, and nurses passed. In the perimeter/ pattern station, 97.5%, 90.9%, and 66.7% of doctors, interns, and nurses passed. In the palpation/pressure station, 54.4%, 50.0%, and 66.7% of doctors, interns, and nurses passed. Overall, 43.0%, 27.3%, and 29.4% of doctors, interns, and nurses passed the module.

Conclusion:
Overall, 43.0%, 27.3%, and 29.4% of doctors, interns, and nurses passed the technical aspect of the Proficiency in Clinical Breast Examination Module, respectively

Key words: Clinical breast exam, breast cancer