Is Digital Video Recorded Simulated Suture Skills Testing Associated With Lower Stress and Anxiety Than Traditional In-Person Assessment for Veterinary Students?

Abstract

Anxiety can affect exam performance so exploring methods to improve mental health and academic performance is relevant. The objectives of this study were to investigate stress amongst veterinary students undergoing simulated suture skills examinations and determine if digital video recording can reduce stress compared to in-person examination. Thirty-nine students were prospectively enrolled and randomized to undergo two simulated suture examinations, a session proctored by an in-person examiner or one digitally recorded with no proctor present and then crossed over to the other group. Survey data, modified State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), salivary cortisol, heart rate (HR) and blood pressures were obtained at baseline, prior to, and post-examinations. STAI scores were significantly higher post- in-person examination compared to pre- in-person examination ( p = .0014) for first session. Pre- examination STAI scores were significantly higher for in-person examinations compared to recorded examinations ( p = .0312) during the second session. Blood pressure was significantly higher during the first session regardless of examination type ( p = .018) and HR was lower at baseline than pre- and post-examination, regardless of exam type (p<.0001). Students reported more stress with in-person examinations (p<.0001) and that if given a choice, they would preferentially opt for recorded examinations ( p < .0001). Twenty-eight of 32 students with prior suture skills examination experience reported that the simulated examination was less stressful. STAI scores and self-reported stress levels were significantly lower following recorded exams. Digital video recording of skills testing can reduce perceived stress in veterinary students compared to traditional in-person skills examination.