Introduction to the OSCE

Dr Lisa Joels MD FRCOGRoyal Devon & Exeter NHS Trust

July 2011

© Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists

OSCE

• Objective structured clinical examination• 12 stations– 2 preparatory– 10 active

• 1 minute to read scenario outside booth• Information also inside booth• 14 minutes with examiner

Preparatory stations

• 15 minutes to prepare by reviewing candidate’s information e.g. Labour ward board

• 15 minutes with examiner presenting the work you’ve prepared

• Make sure you review all the material• Order your thoughts – logical approach

Role player stations

• Actor + Examiner– Examiner plays no active part - only marking• Don’t address the examiner• Pretend they aren’t there• Don’t ask examiner questions

– Behave exactly as you would in clinic– Remember communication skills lecture• Body language• Eye contact

Role player

• Typical scenarios:– Breaking bad news– Counselling about treatment options– Obtaining consent– Teaching a practical skill– De-briefing after adverse event

Structured oral

• You and the Examiner• Examiner will ask questions and mark your

answers• Clinical scenario may evolve– give further information (written & verbal)– If you forgot something revealed in next part

cannot gain marks (can’t go back)– Examiner may move you on if concerned about

timekeeping

Structured oral

• You cannot ask Examiner questions• They must stick to a strict “script” to ensure

examination is consistent between candidates and fair

The exam

• Pencil and paper– Make notes, draw diagrams

• 15 minutes per station– 1 minute reading, 14 minutes with Examiner

• Follow the numbers• Candidate number clearly on view• If you finish early just sit quietly• The Examiner is forbidden to chat with you

Summary

• Think about what you do every day• Read the question– What does the station want you to do– E.g take a history and arrange investigations

• Role play yourself when talking to the actor• Don’t ask the Examiner questions