Assessing Student Ability

The PRIMARY ROLE OF A PRECEPTOR is to assess a student’s ability to accurately:

1. Perform a medical history and physical exam based on presenting complaint & appropriate to the setting
2. Formulate a differential diagnosis appropriate to patient & setting
3. Order and interpret tests to narrow the differential diagnosis to a working diagnosis
4. Describe/perform procedures to diagnose & treat a patient’s problems
5. Craft a treatment plan appropriate to a patient’s problems and situation
6. Work with patients & members of the healthcare team ethically and professionally

Preceptors should assess these abilities in multiple venues, including at the bedside, during oral presentations, and during rounds.