The Short Cases
The clinical remains the Great Unknown Fear for many of us. Mercifully, it is now possible to compensate for a failure in the clinical and still pass the exam.
ON THE MORNING
Try to bring as many of the following items that you can:
Key, pen and coin (key, chuck and pinch grip)
Tape measure
Goniometer
Light pen
By and large, these should be provided, but it still feels good to have your own
Dress conservatively, like a consultant would
For goodness sake switch off or even leave behind your mobile phone
As you walk into each section, you will be directed to your two examiners. Although you may well have nerves, try to look as if you’re glad to be there and getting the exam done finally. You may well have earned the right to feel a bit unhappy, but it won’t endear you to your examiners who need to be on your side. Look confident but not at all cocky.
The examiner is always right. It’s unfair, but it’s the rule of the game. Having said that, if you can find a tactful way to back up a claim then you can risk it, but always be aware of the need to back down in the face of unfriendly fire.
THE SHORT CASES
It seems almost unfair that after months of preparation, only 15 minutes is given to each limb. Still, we’re not complaining that it’s not longer.
One of the examiners told me that he felt the short case was all about demonstrating signs. There are signs waiting for you (that’s why these patients have been chosen), and you will either show them
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