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Article History

Received: 22 September 2024

Accepted: 20 December 2024

First Online: 29 December 2024

Declarations

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: Ethical clearance was obtained. Each study participant was informed about the purpose and objective of the study. Written informed consent was obtained prior to data collection. Privacy and confidentiality were adhered too, as the data collection was anonymous. Informed consent was obtained from the medical students and from the children’s guardians (to have their children participate as SP and for them to participate in the study). We also obtained assent from the children SP. We ensured the safety and comfort of child SPs throughout the study, with a pediatrician on-site during the examination to address any potential medical or psychological concern. The perspective on safety for both the children and the examiners was critical in the study. For the children, safety considerations included ensuring that the otoscopic examination was non-invasive and performed by candidates under direct faculty supervision. Training for the standardized patients included guidance on signaling any discomfort, while guardians were present to oversee the process and ensure the children’s well-being. The examinees’ safety measures (students) involved proper training in otoscopic technique to avoid any risk of harm to themselves, such as handling the equipment appropriately to prevent injury during their pediatric clerkships. Additionally, with faculty oversight, the controlled environment of the OSCE minimized potential risks to both participants and ensured a safe learning and assessment experience. Data collected from the medical student, guardians, child SP and examiners were de-identified and stored in an anonymized manner to protect the confidentiality of the participants. Data was stored securely in password protected files and access to data was limited to the researchers. UGHE IRB approved this study with approval number: UGHE-IRB/2024/341-EXE. The research was conducted following standards in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. All methods were carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations.

: Written informed consent for publication of their response was obtained from participants of this study. A copy of the consent form is available for review by the Editor of this journal.

: The authors declare no competing interests.