3-5th Year Osce

3rd 5th Year OSCE
Notes and mock mark schemes

April 2011
Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative

Glasgow University Medical School
peerassisted.org
Chan P, Katechia DT, Thant KZ, Adams C, Alanie O, Boyle A, Brookfield S, Connelly
L, Devine K, Dyer K, Hynd I, Kidd A, Little C, Low L, Lumsden A, Lynch L, Peiris D,
Sadler R, Syeda S, Tindell A.
Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org
Contents
Breast examination
Cerebellar examination
Cranial nerves III-VII
Fundoscopy
Intramuscular injection
Intravenous cannulation
Neck examination
Otoscopy and free-field voice test
Peripheral arterial examination
Suturing
Visual acuity testing
Digital rectal examination
History: Assessing suicide risk
History: Chest pain
History: Dysphagia
History: Falls and palpitations
History: Giving information Colonoscopy
History: Haematuria
History: Headache
History: Hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis)
History: Jaundice
History: Rectal bleeding
History: Shortness of breath
A note on the contents

This work was produced entirely by final year MBChB undergraduates at Glasgow University
Medical School in April 2011. The contents are in no way official documents used by the
medical school for assessment purposes.
rd
3 Year Mock OSCE Mark Scheme
Breast examination
Instructions:
Time:
Perform a full breast examination on this breast model/patient.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self and checks identity by asking full name and date of birth.
2.
Explains procedure and gains consent.
3.
Offers chaperone.
4.
Washes hands before and after examination.
INSPECTION
5.
General inspection (e.g. cachexia, distress).
6.
Inspects breasts with patients arms by her side.
7.
Inspects breasts and axillae with hands on hips.
8.
9.
Inspects breasts with patient pushing down on bed or hips and comments on any
dimpling (tethering).
Comments on:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Symmetry.
Skin changes (e.g. peau dorange).
Lumps.
Scars.
Nipple changes (e.g. inversion, Pagets disease).
Nipple discharge.
mark for each.
PALPATION
10.
Positions patient lying flat with hands behind head and asks if tender anywhere.
11.
Palpates four quadrants of breasts.
12.
Palpates axillary tail.
13.
Palpates lymph nodes (axillary, supraclavicular head and neck).
Describes masses appropriately: site, size, shape, consistency, surface, temperature,

tenderness, mobility, overlying skin.
Up to 3 marks available.
14.
SUMMARY
15.
Summarises findings and offers differential diagnosis.
16.
Mark for excellence.
Circle: Pass / Borderline Pass / Fail
Total marks: ______ / 20
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3 Year OSCE Revision Course Notes
Breast examination
Written in April 2011 by Andrew Boyle and Alistair Tindell.
How to describe a lump
Site (e.g. mass in the upper inner quadrant of the left breast).
Overlying Skin (Colour? Punctum? Discharge?)
Size.
Shape.
Consistency.
Surface (craggy/smooth).
Temperature.
Tenderness.
Fluctuance.
Tethering to skin.
Transillumination.
Always check local lymph nodes if lump is found.

Malignant Lump
Overlying skin changes tethering, peau dorange.

Nipple inversion/discharge.
Non-tender, firm.
Non-fluctuant, no transillumination.
Irregular, craggy.
Attached to deep tissues skin.
Triple Assessment
(very likely to be asked this, good to know for OSCE and clinical attachments):
Under 35y:
1. History and examination.
2. Ultrasound (+ mammography if >35yrs).
3. Fine needle aspiration (faster, only shows cells) or core biopsy (shows structure).
For distant disease, further investigations are needed to detect metastases (e.g. LFTs, CT, skeletal survey).
Staging
Nottingham Prognostic Index (tumour size, tumour grade, lymph node status).
Sentinel node biopsy
Identifies draining lymph node during surgery. Injection of blue dye into tissue shows which lymph node drains the
area first by this lymph node turning blue first. This lymph node is then removed for pathological assessment for
cancerous cells during the surgery. If positive, axillary node clearance will be performed. If negative, no further
removal of lymph nodes is required.
Treatment
MDT, including breast care nurses, radiologists, oncologists, pathologists
Combination of:
Surgery, including lymph nodes and reconstruction.
Chemotherapy.
Endocrine agents e.g. Tamoxifen, Herceptin. Pathology instructs which to use.
Radiotherapy.
And for distant disease, palliation.
rd
Instructions:
Time:
Please assess this patient for signs of cerebellar dysfunction.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduction, identifies patient and gains consent.
2.
GENERAL
3.
4.
General inspection, commenting on abnormal posturing or movements if present,

signs of alcoholism, e.g. unkempt appearance, spider naevi.
Asks patient to sit on edge of the bed with their arms crossed to their shoulders then
observes for unsteadiness of truncal ataxia.
GAIT
5.
Observes patients gait (including transfer from sitting to standing and vice-versa).
6.
Asks patient to perform tandem walking.
EYES
7.
Tests for nystagmus.

SPEECH
8.
Asks patient to say, baby hippopotamus/British constitution/West Registry Street,

Edinburgh.
UPPER LIMBS
9.
Tests tone of upper limbs.
10.
Tests reflexes of upper limbs.
11.
Tests for dysdiadochokinesis of hands.
12.
Tests for intention tremor/pass pointing/dysmetria with finger-to-nose test.
13.
Asks patient to stretch out arms then observes for postural tremor. (Pronator drift in
stroke).
14.
Tests for rebound on outstretched arms.
LOWER LIMBS
15.
Tests tone of lower limbs.
16.
Tests reflexes of lower limbs.
17.
Tests for dysdiadochokinesis of feet by asking patient to tap on the floor quickly.
18.
Tests for dysmetria with heel-to-shin test.
SUMMARY
19.
Summarises key findings and offers differential diagnosis.
20.
rd
Written in April 2011 by Kristyn Dyer and Lauren Connelly.
Introduction
The cerebellum is the largest part of the hindbrain and is mainly responsible for functional movement. This means coordination of motor to effect precise and accurately timed movement. The cerebellum does this by integrating sensory
information from the cerebral cortex, basal ganglia, vestibular apparatus and spinal cord, to fine tune motor output.
Lesions can affect the cerebellum itself, input pathways from other parts of the brain and inner ear, or output
pathways from the cerebellum.
A patient with cerebellar dysfunction will typically present with difficulties with motor function, including weakness,
loss of power, and a new or worsening tremor. Other symptoms may include dizziness (exclude inner ear pathology),
and changes in speech.
Common Pathologies causing Cerebellar Dysfunction:
Stroke (Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic).

Tumours.
Alcohol.
Trauma.
Migraine.
Cerebellar signs
Gait
Eyes
Speech
Upper limbs
Lower limbs
Body
Broad-based, unsteady gait.

Nystagmus.
Slow, slurring staccato speech.
Hypotonia, hyporeflexia, dysmetria (pass pointing), dysdiadochokinesis, rebound
on pushing down outstretched arms.
Hypotonia, hyporeflexia, dysmetria (heel to shin difficulty), dysdiadochokinesis
(difficulty with tapping foot on floor).
Truncal ataxia (difficulty sitting or standing unsupported).
Rombergs test
Rombergs test is positive in sensory ataxia and negative in cerebellar ataxia. It is not a test of
cerebellar function, as patients with cerebellar ataxia tend to have difficulty standing steady even with
their eyes open. It can be used to exclude sensory ataxia in a cerebellar examination.
To perform Rombergs test, ask the patient to stand with feet together and eyes closed, then observe
for 1 minute. Be prepared to catch them. The test is positive if the patient starts swaying.
Before you panic Remember:
D
A
S
H
I
N
G
Dysdiadochokinesis: unable to perform rapid, alternating movements.

Ataxia: usually truncal, patient may fall on the same side.
Scanning/Staccato speech.
Hypotonia.
Intention tremor.
Nystagmus.
Gait Abnormalities.
Bibliography and further reading

1.
2.
3.
nd
Essential Neurology, Wilkinson IMS, 1993, 2 edition, Blackwell Scientific Publications, p. 114.
Macleods Clinical Examination.
Oxford Handbook of Clinical Examination and Practical Skills.
rd
Cranial nerves III-VII examination

Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients cranial nerves III-VII.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self and checks patients identity.
2.
Explains procedure, obtains consent and washes hands before and after examination.
CN III, IV, VI
3.
Inspects for ptosis, strabismus and pupillary size, shape & regularity.
Tests light reflex.
4.
i.
ii.
Direct and consensual.

Swinging flashlight test.
5.
Tests pupillary response to accommodation (convergence and pupillary constriction).
6.
Tests eye movements (H pattern of movement).
7.
Checks for nystagmus.
8.
Asks patient if they experience diplopia with eye movements.
CN V SENSORY
Tests light touch sensation in 3 areas, comparing left and right.

9.
i. Ophthalmic branch.
ii. Maxillary branch.
iii. Mandibular branch.
CN V MOTOR
10.
Palpates masseter and temporalis bulk with teeth clenched.
11.
Asks patient to open jaw against resistance.
12.
Offers to perform jaw jerk reflex.
13.
Offers to perform corneal reflex.
CN VII MOTOR
14.
Inspects for facial asymmetry.
15.
Asks patient to wrinkle up forehead.
16.
Asks patient to shut eyes tightly against resistance.
17.
Asks patient to puff out cheeks.
18.
Asks patient to show their teeth.
19.
Summary and differential diagnosis.
20.
Thanks the patient / mark for excellence.
rd
Cranial nerves III-VII examination (page 1 of 3)

Written in April 2011 by Sam Brookfield and Liying Low.
Inspection
Inspection of the face can include looking for facial weakness, asymmetry and any involuntary movements.
Inspection of the eyes includes looking at the pupils, eyelids for ptosis and eyes for nystagmus.
Pupillary Responses
Pupil responses are afferent via CN II and efferent via CN III and are often considered part of CN II examination but
included here for completeness. Direct (same eye) and indirect (opposite eye) pupillary responses to light should be
assessed. When focusing from a distant to a close object pupils should converge and constrict.
Eye Movements
Start by asking the patient to look at your finger, asking if they have any double vision (diplopia) and looking for
nystagmus. If they do have diplopia, ask whether it is vertical or horizontal. Then trace out an H pattern, looking for
nystagmus or ophthalmoplegia and asking the patient to report any double vision. In identifying the lesion it helps to
remember which nerves supply which extra-ocular muscle.
Trigeminal Nerve (CN V)

The trigeminal nerve is sensory to the face, which can be assessed by light touch
cotton wool or a fingertip. Start by touching the patient on the sternum as a reference
point, then testing each side of the face and asking, Can you feel this? Does it feel the
same? to the three areas of the trigeminal nerve as shown on the diagram. The
trigeminal nerve also supplies touch (not taste) to the anterior tongue, although, this is
not often tested.
It is also motor to the muscles of mastication. Ask the patient to clench their teeth and
palpate masseter and temporalis bulk. Ask the patient to open their jaw against
resistance, and move from side to side.
Jaw Jerk
Not routinely tested. Place one finger in the centre of the jaw and gently strike your
finger with a tendon hammer. It is normally absent or a slight, brisk contraction of the
masseter may suggest an upper motor neurone lesion. The jaw jerk is both afferent and
efferent via the trigeminal nerve.
Corneal Reflex
Not routinely tested. Use a wisp of cotton wool to stimulate the lower outer quadrant of the cornea. This should cause
direct and consensual blinking. The corneal reflex is afferent via CN V and efferent via CN VII.
Facial Movements
Ask the patient to raise eyebrows/wrinkle forehead, and show their teeth. Test power by resisting screwing up eyelids
and puffing out cheeks. You can also test taste to the anterior tongue, lacrimation and hearing.
rd

Cranial Nerve
Normal function
Features of cranial nerve lesion
CN III (oculomotor)
Supplies all extraocular muscles

except lateral rectus and superior
oblique.
Eye down and out

(unopposed CN IV and CN VI
action).
Efferent limb of pupillary reflex.
Pupil dilation, unreactive to direct

light. Intact consensual reaction in
opposite normal eye.!
Supplies levator palpebrae

superioris (elevates eyelids).
Ptosis.
Supplies superior oblique.
Weakness of downward and

outward eye movements. Head tilt
away from lesion, i.e. to opposite
shoulder.
CN IV (trochlear)
Tip: Think SO4

Remember SIN: Superior oblique
INtorts the eye.
Tip: Think LR6
Failure of lateral eye movement,

horizontal diplopia (i.e. images are
side by side and parallel to each
other), convergent strabismus. !
Cranial Nerve
Normal function
CN V (trigeminal)
Motor:
Supplies muscles of Mastication
(Masseter, & teMporal).
Wasting and weakness of muscles

of mastication.
CN VI (abducens)
Supplies lateral rectus.
Tip: Think Ms
In unilateral lesion, jaw deviates to

the affected side.
Supplies Pterygoid muscles, which

functions to oPen the mouth
Tip: Think Ps
Jaw jerk or masseter reflex.
Jaw jerk is exaggerated in UMNL

above pons.
Sensory:
Afferent limb of corneal reflex.
Loss of corneal reflex.
Facial sensations at ophthalmic,

maxillary and mandibular regions.
Loss of facial sensation.
rd

Cranial Nerve
Normal function
CN VII (facial)
Motor:
Facial asymmetry.
Supplies muscles of facial

expression.
UMNL Contralateral drooping of

the corner of the mouth, flattening
nasolabial fold, with forehead
sparing.
i. Frontalis
(receives bilateral UMN
innervation)
(i.e. Left UMNL Drooping of

corner of mouth and flattening of
nasolabial fold on the Right side).
ii. Orbicularis oculi
UMNL refers to the lesion above

the level of the brainstem nucleus.
(receives innervation from

contralateral cortex)
LMNL Ipsilateral drooping of the

corner of the mouth, flattening
nasolabial fold, smoothening of
wrinkled forehead.
iii. Orbicularis oris

(receives innervations from
contralateral cortex)
(i.e. Left LMNL Drooping of

corner of mouth, flattening
nasolabial fold, smoothening of
wrinkled forehead on the Left side).
LMNL refers to the lesion at the
level of the nucleus or nerve root.
Stapedius muscle, which normally

contracts in response to loud
noises and dampens ossicular
movements.
Hyperacusis (intolerance to loud,

high-pitched sounds).
Sensory:
Chorda tympani, which receives
sensation from the anterior twothirds of tongue.
Loss of taste sensation in anterior

two-thirds of tongue.

1.
2.
3.
st
Chan P, Thant KZ, Katechia DT. PALI Clinical Years Companion, 1 Ed.
th
Douglas G, Nicol F, Robertson C. Macleods Clinical Examination, 11 Ed. Elsevier 2005, p249-259.
th
Talley NJ, OConnor S. Clinical Examination: A Systematic Guide to Physical Diagnosis, 6 Ed. Elsevier
2009.
rd
Fundoscopy
Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients fundus.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduction, checks identity.
2.
Washes hands before examination.
3.
Explains procedure and gains consent. Warns about bright light, that it might be
uncomfortable and that you will turn off the lights.
4.
Explains that ideally, would have instilled dilating drops 10-15 minutes beforehand.
5.
Turns off room light and sets ophthalmoscope to 0.
6.
Correctly holds ophthalmoscope (same eye as patient, and same hand).
7.
Checks for red reflex in correct position (30cm away).
8.
Comments on external appearance of eye: scars, discharge, swelling, redness.
9.
Explains to patient to focus on a spot in the distance and warns about coming in close
to them.
10.
Alters power until the fundus is in focus.
11.
Comments on optic disc: cup-disc ratio, colour of disc, margins, neovascularisation.
12.
13.
Follows the four blood vessel arcades, and comments on appearance: tortuosity,
microaneurysms, A-V nipping.
Comments on appearance of periphery of fundus (nasal + temporal to disc):
haemorrhages, exudates, new vessels, photocoagulation scars, cotton wool spots.
14.
Asks patient to look directly at light to examine macula.
15.
Comments on appearance of macula: exudates, abnormal pigmentation.
16.
Expresses wish to examine other eye.
17.
Summarises findings.
18.
Offers correct diagnosis.
19.
Washes hands after examination.
20.
rd
Fundoscopy
Written in April 2011 by Andrew Lumsden and Sarah Syeda.
Tips on using the direct ophthalmoscope
Use the same eye as the patients eye youre examining and use the same hand, e.g. when examining the
patients right eye, use your right eye and hold the ophthalmoscope in your right hand.
Use the other hand to stabilise your head and lift the patients lid if needed.
Adjust the power of the lens to minus (myopic) direction until the fundus is in view.
Red reflex should appear red. Any opacities (they look like shadows) indicate e.g. cataracts.
Optic disc
1. Cup-disc ratio
0.3-0.5 = normal.
>0.5 = glaucoma.
No cup visible = papilloedema.
2. Colour
Pink = normal.
Pale = optic atrophy.
3. Margin
Indistinct = disc oedema.
Common scenarios likely to appear

1. Diabetic retinopathy
Non-proliferative
o Dot + blot haemorrhages.
o Hard exudates.
o Microaneurysms.
o Cotton wool spots (pre-proliferative).
Proliferative includes the above +
o New vessels, classified as:
a. NV at disc.
b. NV elsewhere.
Photocoagulation scars may be visible in the periphery (they look like black/white burns).
2. Hypertensive retinopathy signs include:
A-V nipping: arteries nip the veins where they cross. You may see the vein bulge adjacent to site of nipping.
Flame haemorrhages.
Cotton wool spots.
Exudates.
Optic disc swelling.
Microaneurysms.
3. Papilloedema
Optic disc swelling (disc margins indistinct). Most commonly due to ICP. May also be due to papillitis due to
optic neuritis.
4. Optic atrophy
Pale optic disc. May be due to optic neuritis, glaucoma, ischaemic/toxic optic neuropathy.

1.
2.
th
B. James, C. Chew, A. Brown. Lecture Notes: Ophthalmology. 10 Ed. Blackwell Publishing.

rd
M. Batterbury, B. Bowling, C. Murphy. Ophthalmology: An Illustrated Colour Text. 3 Ed. Elsevier.
rd
Instructions:
Time:
Draw up and administer medication via intramuscular injection to the mid-deltoid model.
You must choose an appropriate injection site, appropriate needle and use the Kardex.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self and checks identity by asking full name and date of birth.
2.
Explains purpose of injection and gains consent.
3.
Washes hands before and after procedure and puts on appropriate protective
clothing.
4.
Consults Kardex for drug and dose.
5.
Consults Kardex for date and time of administration.
6.
Consults Kardex for route of administration.
7.
Consults Kardex for correct patient.
8.
Gathers equipment: gloves, alcohol wipe, syringe, 21G needle, 23G needle, drug vial,
sharps box; and puts on gloves.
9.
Selects drug in the appropriate volume and dosage, and checks expiry date.
10.
Selects appropriate injection site (mid-deltoid).
11.
12.
Draws up the appropriate volume of drug required (1ml) with a 21G needle and then
disposes of needle safely.
Selects appropriate gauge (23G) and length of needle for the preferred site of
injection.
13.
Cleans site with alcohol wipe and allows to dry.
14.
Warns the patient, and then pulls skin to one side (Z-track technique) and introduces
needle at 90 with a firm darting motion, penetrating with 2/3 of the needle.
15.
Observes the patient throughout the procedure, providing reassurance if required.
16.
17.
Aspirates (over 5-10 seconds) to ensure needle has not entered a blood vessel, and
injects slowly at a rate of 1ml/10s, if no blood is seen on aspiration.
Withdraws needle, immediately releases retracted skin and applies pressure with
cotton wool ball.
18.
Disposes of needle safely, and places other material in a clinical waste bin.
19.
Signs Kardex to record administration of drug.
20.
rd
Written in April 2011 by Philip Chan and Kyaw Zayar Thant.
Intramuscular injections
IM injections are given into well-perfused muscles. The rate of absorption is faster than subcutaneous injection but
slower than intravenous administration. Indications for IM injection include delivering vaccines.
Five rights right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time.
Five sites
Mid-deltoid
Maximum volume 1ml.
Administer 2.5cm below acromion process.
Avoid brachial artery and radial nerve.

Ventrogluteal
Maximum volume 2.5ml.
Administer at hip.
Dorsogluteal
Maximum volume 4ml.
Administer in the upper outer aspect of gluteal muscle.
Avoid sciatic nerve and superior gluteal arteries.

Vastus lateralis
Maximum volume 5ml.
Administer in outer middle third of thigh.
No significant structures to avoid.

Rectus femoris
Used for self-administration and infants due to ease of access.
The site used is influenced by age, patient health, muscle bulk and type of medication being injected. Care must be
taken to avoid neurovascular structures.
Size of needle
The size (gauge and length) of needle used depends on the injection site, muscle mass, amount of subcutaneous fat
at the site and the weight of the patient. Needles commonly used are 21-23G and 2.5-5.0cm in length. Always consult
hospital local guidelines.
Z-track technique
The skin over the injection site is pulled to the side before the needle is introduced. When the needle is withdrawn,
the skin is released immediately afterwards. This technique ensures that the medication is trapped in the region that it
is required, reducing leakage. The online resource produced by the University of Nottingham gives a good visual
explanation of this (see link below). The Z-track technique is considered best practice.
After the procedure, do not massage the injection site as this causes leakage and local irritation. However, light
exercise or stretching of the muscle may help increase absorption of the medication.

1.
2.
3.
Robb AJP. Intramuscular and subcutaneous injection techniques (presentation). Available from: Glasgow
University VALE clinical skills website.
Williams J, Harling M, Hardy C. Intramuscular injection by the Z-track technique (online resource). Available
from: http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/nmp/sonet/rlos/placs/nctl176_ztrack/index.html
Early D. Intramuscular injection technique. Video podcast. Available from: Glasgow University VALE clinical
skills website. (This is a really good video).
rd
Instructions:
Time:
Perform intravenous cannulation on this model arm.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Washes hands at start and end.
2.
Introduction, checks identity, explains procedure and gains consent.
3.
Gathers equipment: gloves, cannula (appropriate size depending on indication),

adhesive cannula dressing, alcohol skin wipe or chlorhexidine spray, gauze, 5 mL
syringe, 5 mL normal saline (check expiry date), sharps bin and tray.
4.
Applies tourniquet to arm.
5.
Palpates for suitable vein.
6.
Cleanses skin and maintains sterility.
7.
Puts on gloves.
8.
Holds cannula in appropriate manner.
9.
Gives patient warning prior to insertion.
10.
Inserts cannula at an appropriate angle, obtaining a flashback.
11.
Withdraws needle slightly and guides cannula into vein.
12.
Releases tourniquet.
13.
Discards needle into sharps bin.
14.
Replaces cannula cap.
15.
Flushes cannula.
16.
Cleans area up and disposes of equipment.
17.
Thanks the patient, ensuring their comfort.
18.
Comments on need to document insertion and ensure regular review of cannula sites.
19.
Performs procedure in a professional and comfortable manner.
20.
rd
Written in April 2011 by Dilane Peiris and Lucy Lynch.
Introduction
Cannulation or intravenous (IV) access is the bread and butter of junior doctors clinical skills. Indications for a
patient to have IV access, includes:
Requirement for IV fluids or medication.

Surgical or endoscopic procedures.
Radiological investigations requiring contrast media.
Cardiac arrest or peri-arrest situations.
However, patients are often left with cannulas in-situ for days, placing them at risk of local infection, thrombophlebitis
and sepsis. It is thus essential to have the skill to place a cannula, and review them frequently.
Equipment
Prepare a small tray with:
Gloves.
Cannula (appropriate size depending on indication).
Adhesive cannula dressing.
Alcohol skin wipe or chlorhexidine spray.
Gauze.
5 mL syringe.
5 mL normal saline (check expiry date).
Sharps bin.
Procedure
Apply tourniquet, preferably to the non-dominant arm.

Select a suitable vein through palpation and sight. Ensure that it is reasonably straight and not too tortuous.
Put on gloves and sterilise the area with an alcohol swab. Following this, avoid touching that area again.
This is a sterile procedure.
Allow chlorhexidine/alcohol to dry.
Unsheathe the cannula.
Hold the cannula between your thumb, index and middle fingers, making sure not to touch the shaft of the
cannula.
Approach the vein at 10-40 in the direction of blood flow (i.e. up the arm). Your thumb should be providing
the force and, as such, should be positioned at the back of the cannula, over its rear port. Your index finger
and middle finger should fall either side of the cannula shaft and hook lightly round the wings. This provides
the steering.
Using your other hand, retract the skin over the vein, and anchor it in place.
Warn the patient just prior to insertion.
Pass the cannula through the skin and into the vein. A flashback of blood in the body of the cannula should
be seen if the cannula is in the vein. You will also feel a give as you pass through the wall of the vein into
the lumen.
Ease the plastic tubing of the cannula off the introducer and into the vein.
Release the tourniquet.
Remove the introducer entirely, and clamp the vein just proximal to the cannula tip to prevent blood leaking
out.
Place the introducer in a sharps bin.
Apply the plastic screw cap to the rear port.
Secure the cannula with a suitable adhesive. Write the date of insertion on the dressing.
Draw up 5 mL of normal saline and flush the cannula through the top port. If it fails to flush or causes pain, it
is in the wrong place and should be removed and re-sited.
After the procedure
Clean up and dispose items in the appropriate receptacles (sharps bins and clinical waste bins).
Ensure that the patient is comfortable.
Thank the patient, wash your hands and document the insertion.
rd
Neck examination
Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients neck.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self and checks identity.
2.
3.
Inspects for scars, JVP, distended neck veins, skin lesions.
4.
Inspects for lymph nodes, swelling, goitre.
5.
Asks patient to protrude tongue and comments on movement.
6.
Inspects and palpates the mass when patient is sipping water.
7.
Examine ears, mouth, scalp for source of primary infection.
8.
Palpates trachea. (Ask about pain before palpation.)
Palpates lymph nodes: cervical, submental, submandibular, parotid, preauricular,

anterior chain, supraclavicular, posterior chain, postauricular, occipital.
9.
10.
Identifies thyroid on palpation.
11.
Percusses sternum to locate lower limit of thyroid.
12.
Auscultates thyroid for bruits, after asking patient to hold their breath.
Describes lump (site, size, shape, colour, skin changes).
13.
14.
Transilluminates lump (or offers to do it).
15.
Reports findings, suggests differential diagnosis and most likely diagnosis.
16.
17.
rd
Neck examination
Written in April 2011 by Caroline Little and Rebecca Sadler.
Lymph Node Levels
1. Submental.
2. Submandibular.
3. Parotid.
4.
Upper cervical, above the level of hyoid bone, and

along the internal jugular chain.
5.
Middle cervical, between the level of hyoid bone and

cricoid cartilage, and along the internal jugular chain.
6.
Lower cervical, below the level of cricoid cartilage,

and along the internal jugular chain.
7. Supraclavicular fossa.
8. Posterior triangle (also known as accessory chain).
(1)
Neck Lumps (2)

Midline:
1.
Thyroglossal cyst painless cystic lump, transilluminates, moves on tongue protrusion.
2.
Midline Dermoid cyst mobile, cutaneous.
Anterior Triangle:
1. Thyroid Swellings Hyperthyroidism (Graves, toxic nodular goitre).
Hypothyroidism (Hashimotos, Iodine deficiency, drugs).
Euthyroid (physiological goitre, multi-nodular goitre, thyroid adenoma).

2. Branchial Cyst smooth rubbery swelling.
3. Pharyngeal Pouch can compress.
4. Salivary Glands stones, tumour, inflammation.
5. Cervical Lymph Nodes.
6. Carotid body tumour high up in anterior triangle, painless.
7. Cervical Rib supraclavicular fossa.
Posterior Triangle:
1. Lymphadenopathy.
2. Cystic Hygroma collection of dilated lymphatics.
Posterior Triangle:
1. Ultrasound Fine Needle Aspiration.
2. CT/MRI.

1.
2.
http://www.droid.cuhk.edu.hk/web/specials/lymph_nodes/lymph_nodes.htm
http://www.firstinmedicine.com/summarysheets_files/ent.html
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients right ear and assess his/her hearing using a free-field voice test.
5 minutes.
Task
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Marks
Washes hands at start and end, introduction, checks identity, explains procedure and
gains consent.
Examines external ear for scars, skin tags, tophi, sinuses, discharge, erythema,
swelling.
Selects otoscope and selects appropriate speculum.
Uses appropriate technique: Gently pulls pinna up and back, holds otoscope like a
pen, with right hand for right ear (or left hand for left ear).
Uses appropriate technique: Ulnar border of hand resting gently against patients
face.
6.
Comments on external auditory canal.
7.
Identifies tympanic membrane.
8.
Assesses for cone of light reflex.
9.
Comments on tympanic membrane: Colour, Translucency, Position, Integrity.
10.
Identifies any abnormality and reports accurate clinical findings.
11.
Gently withdraws otoscope.
12.
Correctly explains free-field voice test to patient.
13.
14.
Selects ear to test and reaches hand behind patients head to block other ear. Rubs
ear to create noise during test.
Begins with whisper at arms length, then moves to 6 inches beside patient if needed.
Then normal voice at arms length, then moves to 6 inches beside patient if needed.
Repeats free-field voice test on other ear.
15.
16.
Reports findings accurately and offers differential diagnosis.
17.
Safely disposes of speculum.
18.
rd

Written in April 2011 by Andrew Kidd and Innes Hynd.
!
Anatomy of the ear
The pinna (or auricle) is the outer projecting portion of the ear. It is composed of elastic cartilage covered with skin.
The external ear canal is about 2-5cm long in adults and extends from the external auditory meatus to the tympanic
membrane.
The tympanic membrane consists of the pars tensa and the pars flaccida. The malleus handle lies in the middle layer
of the pars tensa. The most medial structure in the drum is the lateral process of the malleus. The tip of the handle is
called the umbo, and a cone of light can usually be seen extending anteroinferiorly from the umbo.
Otoscopy equipment and technique

The otoscope consists of a handle and a head. The head contains a light and magnifying lens. The front end of the
otoscope has an attachment for disposable plastic ear specula. The speculum size should be appropriate for the
patient's canals. Hold the otoscope in a pencil grip with the hand of the same side as the ear you are about to
examine. The pencil grip allows the side of your hand to rest on the side of the patient's face, reducing the risk of
trauma if the patients head suddenly moves.
Free-field voice testing

This is a useful test of hearing where each of the patients ears are tested in turn. The examiner should stand to the
side of the patient and reach their hand behind the patients head to rub the ear that is not being examined. This way
the noise created prevents the patient hearing through this ear.
The examiner should begin at arms length by whispering a combination of 3 numbers (e.g. 5, 8, 1) that the patient
should repeat. If the patient does not hear this then move to 6 inches beside the patients ear and use another
random whispered combination. If the patients responses have not yet been accurate, then the process is repeated,
again starting at arms length but this time with a conversational normal voice, not whisper. If this is still not heard then
use a conversational normal voice at 6 inches.
N.B. The whisper should be a loud whisper.
Please note that the Rinne and Weber tuning fork tests may be relevant in a cranial nerve examination, but they do
not test quality of hearing in patients and are not discussed here or recommended in an ENT examination. Pure tone
audiometry is the most accurate way of formally assessing a patients hearing.

1.
2.
3.
Alberti P. The anatomy and physiology of the ear and hearing. Available from:
http://www.who.int/occupational_health/publications/noise2.pdf
Hawke M, Keene M, Alberti PW. Clinical otoscopy: an introduction to ear disease. 2nd ed. Edinburgh:
Churchill Livingstone; 1990.
Swan, Ian R C. Examination of the Ear (video). Available from: Glasgow University VALE clinical skills
website.
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients lower limb pulses, and suggest appropriate subsequent
investigations.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self.
2.
Checks patient details.
3.
Explains examination.
4.
Gains consent.
5.
6.
Inspects legs, commenting on colour, scars, trophic skin changes and tissue loss
(ulceration/gangrene).
7.
Inspects between toes and under heels.
8.
Feels temperature of both feet and legs using back of hand.
9.
Measures capillary refill on both feet.
10.
Palpates dorsalis pedis pulses.
11.
Palpates posterior tibial pulses.
12.
Palpates popliteal pulses.
13.
Palpates femoral pulses.
14.
Feels for abdominal aortic aneurysm.
15.
Auscultates for femoral bruits.
16.
Performs/indicates need to perform Buergers test.
17.
Compares both sides.
18.
Presents findings accurately.
19.
Suggests appropriate investigations, e.g. Duplex Doppler USS; MR angiogram, DSA.
20.
rd

Written April 2011 by Claire Adams and Kerri Devine.
General inspection
It is good practice in any examination to take a step back and make some general observations about the patient.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
This is detected as a pulsatile and expansile mass found above the level of the umbilicus (the aorta bifurcates here).
To demonstrate this, place one hand on either side of the pulsation if it is expansile, your hands will be seen to
move apart in time with the pulse. A mass that is pulsatile but not expansile may only be transmitting a pulse
underneath it, and it is normal to palpate a pulse in thin subjects.
Anatomical Landmarks for Lower Limb Pulses
1.
2.
3.
4.
Dorsalis pedis lateral to extensor hallucis longus tendon on dorsum of foot. It is a common mistake to aim
too low on the foot, and be sure to palpate gently or you may occlude a weak pulse.
Posterior tibial in the groove between the Achilles tendon and medial malleolus.
Popliteal in popliteal fossa. Palpate bimanually with patients leg relaxed and slightly flexed at knee.
Difficult to feel! Consider a popliteal aneurysm if easily felt. Remember that if you have already managed to
feel the lower pulses, it should be in there!
Femoral the femoral pulse is located at the mid-inguinal point halfway between the anterior superior
iliac spine and the pubic symphysis. It is good exam practice to demonstrate locating these landmarks in
order to pinpoint the femoral pulse.
Ulcers
Remember to look between the patients toes for ulceration and necrosis, and lift their heels off the bed to perform a
thorough inspection.
A venous ulcer is typically in the gaiter area over the medial malleolus. There may also be other signs of high
venous pressure (usually due to varicose veins or previous DVT). These include haemosiderin deposition (a reddish
brown stain to the legs), oedema, lipodermatosclerosis, and varicose veins.
An arterial ulcer has typically a punched out appearance with some areas of necrosis and is more likely to be
painful.
A neuropathic ulcer is a painless ulcer occurring on pressure areas, e.g. the heel they are often surrounded by
callous. Diabetic patients can present with neuropathic ulcers, although in practice may be a mixed aetiology (arterial
and neuropathic).
Buergers Test
With patient lying supine, elevate both legs at the same time to approximately 45. Observe for onset of pallor in the
soles of the feet. The smaller the angle raised at which this occurs, the more severe the ischaemia (the angle at
which pallor occurs is termed Buergers angle). Then swing the patients legs round so they are hanging off the side
of the bed and observe for reactive hyperaemia (the foot turns purplish). Pallor on elevation followed by rubor on
dependency is a positive Buergers test.

1.
2.
3.
Gilmour D. Peripheral Arterial Examination: Abdomen and Lower Limbs (video). Available from: Glasgow
ACE the OSCE (a good resource you can purchase online, helpful before finals).
MacLeods Clinical Examination.
rd
Suturing
Instructions:
Time:
Reappose the wound aseptically using the suturing equipment provided. Treat the model
as you would a real patient.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduces self and checks patient identity.
2.
Explains procedure clearly to the patient.
3.
Obtains consent from the patient.
4.
Washes hands before starting procedure.
5.
Puts gloves on.
6.
Uses the no touch technique to open the equipment. Check the expiry date of the
suture.
7.
Inspects the wound and cleans skin using antiseptic.
8.
Appropriately covers the operating field.
9.
Injects local anaesthetic to the operating site.
10.
Allows sufficient time for the local anaesthetic to act.
Inserts suture symmetrically along wound edge.
11.
2 marks awarded.
12.
Ties the suture together with correct tension.
13.
Cuts the suture to the correct length.
14.
Disposes the sharps into the sharps bin.
15.
Disposes of the clinical waste appropriately.
16.
Disposes of the instruments appropriately.
17.
Washes hands afterwards.
18.
States a desire to document procedure details into the patients medical notes.
19.
Total marks:______ / 20
rd
Suturing
Written in April 2011 by Devvrat T. Katechia and Omer Alanie
Suturing
The very first thing to mention about this station is that only 2 marks out of the 20 are actually awarded for the
suturing technique, so it is important not to get too disheartened if in the exam your suture is not exactly symmetrical.
The objective of suturing the skin is to approximate, oppose and evert the wound edges, thereby reducing the risk of
infection, promoting wound healing and providing a better cosmetic outcome.
Communicate with the patient very clearly what you are going to do and the fact that it should not be too painful.
It is important to maintain a sterile environment when suturing a wound and for the purposes of the exam I would
advise stating this out aloud.
Before suturing the wound it is best to prepare the trolley with the equipment that you require, namely: sterile gloves,
tooth forceps, sutures, needle holder, suture scissors, antiseptic for cleaning the wound, local anaesthetic and a
syringe. In the exam this may all be laid out for you.
With regard to the local anaesthetic, it is always best to check the details of the anaesthetic prior to injecting. State
the name of what youre injecting and the expiry date of it to the examiner. Allow sufficient time for the anaesthetic to
act and in the exam once you state this, the examiner may just ask you to proceed.
Suturing technique
Suture thread
Needle point
Needle body
Mounting the needle: Insert your thumb and ring finger inside the needle holder. Pick
up the suture 1/3 along the needle body from the suture thread attachment (known as
swage). If you hold the suture needle at the tip then this will damage the needle and
therefore it will not pierce the skin as effectively. If you need to manoeuvre the needle,
use the forceps and not your fingers!
Suture placement: Hold the skin edge using forceps and insert the needle
approximately 5mm from the wound edge. Penetrate the skin with the needle at a 90
angle. This will ensure symmetrical wound closure. Pull the needle through using
forceps and allow sufficient suture material to tie a knot.
Knot tying: Use the needle holder to hold the short piece of thread. The short end of
the suture is then grasped with the tip of the needle holder and pulled through the loops
of the long end by crossing the hands, such that the 2 ends of the suture material are
situated on opposite sides of the suture line. Repeat the process by rotating the long
end once and pulling through, then pulling the short end and again crossing your arms
This is a simple interrupted suture.
Do not pull the suture too hard as this will place tension on the suture and this will impair wound healing due to tissue
strangulation and wound oedema. Leave sufficient thread when cutting the suture to allow easier removal at a later
date
Finally it is essential to dispose of the sharps accordingly.
Document the site of the wound closure, date, suture material used and the type of knot used in the medical notes.

1.
2.
3.
Aseptic skin closure. Clinical and communication skills OSCE assessment unit. Available from: Glasgow
Wiggan JM. Suturing techniques. Available from: http://emedicine.medscape.com.
Cyberwapx. Surgery simple interrupted suturing wound. Available from:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFQ5-tquFqY
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Examine this patients visual acuity.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduction, checks identity.
2.
3.
DISTANCE VISION TESTING (Snellen chart)
4.
Asks if patient wears corrective lenses for distance and if so, asks them to wear them.
5.
Asks patient to cover eye that is not being tested each time.
6.
Asks patient to read with left eye.
7.
Accurately reports acuity in left eye.
8.
Uses pinhole on left eye and indicates if improves (indicating a refractive error).
9.
Asks patient to read with right eye.
10.
Accurately reports acuity in right eye.
11.
Uses pinhole on right eye and indicates if improves.
NEAR VISION TESTING (Near vision chart)
12.
Asks if patient wears corrective lenses for reading and if so, asks them to wear them.
13.
Asks patient to cover eye that is not being tested each time.
14.
Asks patient to read with left eye.
15.
Accurately reports acuity in left eye.
16.
Asks patient to read with right eye.
17.
Accurately reports acuity in right eye.
18.
Summarises findings.
19.
Offers correct diagnosis.
20.
rd

Written in April 2011 by Andrew Lumsden and Sarah Syeda.
One of the main functions of the optic nerve is vision. There are three elements: acuity, fields and colour vision.
Here, we will focus on testing visual acuity. The method of assessing this is the Snellen chart and near vision chart.
A. Snellen chart
Snellen charts are used to test a patients distance vision.
Preparation
The patient should sit 6 metres away from the Snellen chart, however, often they will sit at 3 metres and look at a 3
metre chart through a mirror. The patient should be asked to wear spectacles or contact lenses for the test, if they
require them.
Assessing and recording vision
Each eye is tested individually by covering one eye at a time and getting the patient to read from the largest letter to
the smallest line they can read. This is repeated for the other eye, and the results are recorded as follows:
Distance from chart / Smallest line read (e.g. Left eye 6/18, Right eye 6/9.)
The number system on the Snellen chart (60, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9, 6, etc.) refers to the distance at which someone with
normal vision could read the line.
If a patient gets some of the letters on a line correct, this should be recorded as:
Distance from chart / Smallest line read with some mistakes MINUS the number of incorrect letters
or
Distance from chart / Smallest line with all letters correct PLUS the number of correct letters on the
smaller line.
For example, a patient correctly identifies four letters out of five on the 12 line could be recorded as:
6/12 1 or 6/18 + 4.
A pinhole should be used and each eye reassessed. If visual acuity improves, this suggests there is a refractive error.
If a patient is unable to read any of the letters, they should be moved closer to the chart (1 metre at a time until they
are 1 metre away from chart). If they are still unable to read any of the letters, the following should be attempted:
Counting fingers hold fingers up at less than one metre.

Hand movements wave hand in front of patient (wave up and down and also side-to-side).
Light perception shine a light in the eye. If not seen, recorded as no light perception.
Normal vision is 6/6. Partially sighted is between 6/60 and 3/60. Blindness is below 3/60.
B. Near vision chart

Preparation
The patient should be asked to hold the test sheet at the distance they would normally hold a book (this should be
around 40cm). The patient should be allowed to wear spectacles or contact lenses for the test.
Assessing and recording vision
The patient should be asked to read the sentences and the results should be recorded as the smallest line that can
be read (according to the scale on the chart).
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Perform a digital rectal examination on this patient.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Washes hands at start and end, introduction, checks identity, explains procedure and
gains consent.
2.
Asks for a chaperone.
3.
Positions the patient correctly and drapes the patient appropriately.
4.
Wears gloves.
5.
Inspects the perianal areas.
6.
Inspects the anus as the patient strains down.
7.
Lubricates index finger.
8.
Tells the patient that they are now going to insert their finger and that they may feel
like their bowels are about to move.
9.
Inserts index finger as the anal sphincter relaxes.
10.
Comments on the sphincter tone of the anus.
11.
Notes any tenderness, induration, irregularities or nodules.
12.
Inserts index finger farther into the rectum.
13.
Palpates in sequence: the right lateral, posterior, and left lateral surfaces.
14.
15.
16.
Turns the hand so that the finger can examine the anterior surface and prostate
gland.
Notifies patient they are going to feel the prostate gland and that it may feel like they
are going to urinate but they will not.
Palpates lateral lobes and median sulcus of the prostate. Comments on the size,
shape, and consistency of the prostate.
17.
Withdraws finger and examines finger for faeces, blood and mucus.
18.
Provides the patient with tissue to wipe the anus.
19.
Disposes of the gloves and wipes in the clinical waste bin.
20.
rd

Written in April 2011 by Devvrat T. Katechia
!
Prior to performing a digital rectal examination it is essential to communicate very clearly with the patient the
procedure and what it entails.
You must request a chaperone when performing this examination.
For the purpose of the examination it is best to communicate and present what you are doing with the examiner as
you proceed. This prevents you from forgetting examination steps or findings.
Position
The patient should be positioned on the left hand side with his buttocks close to the edge of the examining table. Ask
the patient to draw their knees up to their chest.
Inspection
Comment on the presence of any lumps, ulcers, inflammation, rashes, excoriations and skin tags.
As the patient strains down, observe for the presence of any haemorrhoids.
Palpation
It is always best to warn the patient before you insert a finger up their anus.
As you insert your index finger, look at the patient for any signs of tenderness or pain. If the patient complains of
severe pain this may indicate the presence of an anal fissure.
Presenting examination findings

It is always best to rehearse presenting your findings either with friends or in front of the mirror. This helps you look
as slick as possible and enables you to obtain the mark for excellence.
For the rectal examination you may say the following:
On examination of Mr. Xs perianal region and rectum, there were no abnormalities to note on inspection. On
palpation there was normal anal tone and no irregularities to note in the rectum. The prostate was of normal size,
consistency and surface. On examining the glove there is no mucus, faeces or blood. I would like to complete the
examination by performing a full abdominal examination on this patient.

1.
Oxford Handbook of Clinical Examination and Practical Skills by James Thomas and Tanya Monaghan.
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Assess the suicide risk of this 25-year-old patient who has presented to A&E with an
overdose.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Introduction, checks identity and gains consent.
2.
Establishes quantity and types of drug(s) taken, including alcohol.
3.
Establishes reason for suicide attempt.
4.
Establishes whether the attempt was planned.
5.
Establishes whether the patient was alone.
6.
Establishes whether the patient took steps to avoid being discovered.
7.
Establishes whether final acts were taken (e.g. suicide note, leaving a will).
8.
Asks if it was the patients intention to die or asks if they sought help after the attempt.
9.
Asks whether the patient regrets being alive and if they still have suicidal ideations.
10.
Asks about the patients mood.
11.
Past medical history (must specifically ask about psychiatric illness).
12.
Asks about major life events (e.g. being abused as a child, broken relationships) and
previous episodes of self-harm and/or suicide attempts).
13.
Excludes psychotic symptoms (e.g. hearing voices, hallucinations, odd behaviour).
14.
Drug history and allergies.
15.
Family history.
16.
Social history.
17.
Summarises and welcomes questions.
18.
Actors assessment. Marks are awarded for putting the patient at ease, employing an
empathic approach, using silences to give the patient space, having appropriate body
language, etc.
rd

Written in April 2011 by Philip Chan.
!
Risk factors for suicide risk
Male gender.
Age.
Previous suicide attempt or self-harm.
Psychiatric illness.
Hopelessness.
Social isolation.
Low socio-economic status.
Unemployment.
Alcoholism and drug abuse.
Major life events, e.g. difficult childhood.
Actor behaviour when assessing suicide risk
Do not be put off if the actor does not respond to your questions. Allow enough silence for them to
reflect, but dont forget that you have a long list of questions to get through in five minutes, so just keep
asking. The examiner will give you the marks even if they dont answer.
The actor will often not make eye contact with you throughout the entire interview.
A lot of marks will be allocated for actors assessment, and so it is important that you use good
communication skills, e.g. showing empathy, using appropriate body language, leaning in to speak to the
patient, allowing silences, speaking at the appropriate volume.
Assessing a real patient
It is unrealistic to expect you to take a full psychiatric history and perform a full mental state examination in a
five-minute OSCE station. However, this is what would be expected in a real life scenario.
Full psychiatric history taking and the mental state examination will be taught in more detail during your
psychiatry block in your clinical years.
Drug overdose is one of the most common A&E presentations and so suicide risk assessment is an
important skill that you must learn.

1.
2.
Suicide risk assessment and threats of suicide. Patient UK. Available from:
http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Suicide-Risk-Assessment-and-Threats-of-Suicide.htm
th
Harrison P, Geddes J, Sharpe M. Psychiatry (Lecture Notes series), 10 Ed. (The best and only book you
need for psychiatry for finals, in my humble opinion.)
rd
History: Chest pain

Instructions:
Time:
Take a focussed history of a 60-year-old patient who presented with chest pain.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
Site of pain.
3.
Radiation of pain.
4.
Character of pain.
5.
Onset of current chest pain.
6.
Timing and duration of pain.
7.
Exacerbating factors and relieving factors
8.
Severity of pain.
9.
Associated cardiovascular symptoms: breathlessness, nausea/vomiting, sweating,

palpitations, loss of consciousness, ankle swelling.
10.
Associated respiratory symptoms: cough, wheeze, haemoptysis, sputum.
11.
Associated GI symptoms: heartburn, waterbrash, pain related to meals.
12.
Establishes previous episodes of chest pain.
Asks about:
13.
1. Past history of angina, MI, stroke or PVD.

2. Past history of diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia.
3. Past history of CABG/PCTA.
14.
Asks about drug and allergy history.
15.
Asks about family history.
16.
Asks about social history (must include smoking, drinking).
17.
18.
rd
History: Chest pain

Written in April 2011 by Kyaw Zayar Thant.
Main differential diagnoses and typical presentations
When considering the cause of chest pain, visualise the anatomy of the chest. Pain may arise from the
cardiovascular system (heart & aorta), respiratory system (lungs, pulmonary vessels), GI system (oesophagus, upper
stomach) or musculoskeletal system (chest muscles, rib cage).
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Cardiovascular
Acute coronary syndrome (STEMI, NSTEMI, unstable angina)
Middle aged/elderly patient with central, crushing/tight chest pain, radiating to either both arms neck/jaw.
Pain is sudden onset while patient is at rest, not relieved by GTN, antacids or resting and lasts more than
just a few mins. (cf. stable angina, which is pain on exertion, relieved by rest/GTN; lasting a few mins). May
have associated breathlessness, nausea/vomiting, sweating and sense of impending doom. Typically,
there is history of angina, MI, stroke, intermittent claudication and other cardiovascular risk factors (diabetes,
hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, smoking, alcohol excess, family history).
Aortic dissection
Severe, tearing chest pain, located centrally or to one side, radiating to the back. May have a difference in
blood pressure and radio-radial delay between the arms.
Pericarditis
Central, sharp chest pain which may radiate to the left shoulder or neck, exacerbated by lying down,
respiration or movement and relieved by leaning forward or use of NSAIDs. Mainly occur in patients post-MI.
Respiratory
Pulmonary embolism
Presentation of PE can be varied and difficult to diagnose. Typically, history of sudden onset shortness of
breath, pleuritic chest pain haemoptysis in someone with a hot, swollen, tender calves (DVT) or other
risk factors for blood clots (surgery, malignancy, pregnancy, period of immobility)
Pneumothorax
Sudden onset of pleuritic chest pain with breathlessness.
GI
Oesophagitis/GORD
Central, burning chest pain with no radiation, precipitated by heavy meals or bending down, e.g. to touch
his toes, relieved by antacids. May have associated waterbrash, acid brash.
Oesophageal spasm
Oesophageal spasm can mimic angina closely; i.e. central crushing chest pain, which may radiate to the
neck or upper arms, brought on by exercise and relieved by GTN. However, the pain may show relation to
meals and be accompanied by transient dysphagia and symptoms of GORD.
Musculoskeletal pain
Pain is variable. Pain which varies with posture and movement of upper body, local tenderness over
rib/cartilage are clues to musculoskeletal pain.
You must exclude the following diagnoses in all cases as they are potentially fatal and need immediate Rx:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Acute coronary syndrome.

Aortic dissection.
Pneumothorax.
Pulmonary embolism.
Key investigations
1.
2.
3.
12 lead ECG.
Chest X-ray.
Blood tests: FBC, U&E, LFT, CRP, glucose, lipids, admission and 12 hour troponin.

1.
2.
st
Colledge NR et al. Davidsons principles and practice of medicine. 21 ed. Edinburgh; Elsevier: 2010.
Farne H, Norris-Cervetto E, Warbrick-Smith J. Oxford Cases in Medicine and Surgery. Oxford; Oxford
University Press: 2010.
rd
History: Dysphagia
Instructions:
Time:
Take a focussed history of a 65-year-old patient who presents with difficulty swallowing.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
Washes hands at start and end, introduction, checks identity, gains consent.
2.
Clarifies patients symptoms and position where patient feels things are sticking.
3.
Timing and duration of symptoms.
4.
Difficulty in swallowing progressive or intermittent?
5.
Difficulty swallowing solids and liquids or both?
6.
Pain on swallowing.
7.
Associated symptoms: coughing, choking, gurgling.
Neurological symptoms: weakness in any limbs, tired after repetitive chewing.

Difficulty or change in their speech, previous strokes, MS.
Rheumatological symptoms: pain, stiffness or swelling in any joints.
Malignant features: weight loss, anorexia, lethargy, anaemia.
8.
2 marks available.
9.
10.
3 marks available.
11.
Past medical history (must ask about GORD, peptic ulcer disease, previous
malignancy).
12.
Drug history (must ask about NSAIDs, indigestion tablets) and allergies.
13.
Family history.
14.
Social history (quantify smoking and drinking habits).
Summary and elicits patients concerns sensitively.
15.
16.
2 marks available.
rd
History: Dysphagia
Written in April 2011 by Devvrat T. Katechia.
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is a difficulty in swallowing. It is important to clarify what a patient means when they say they have a
swallowing difficulty. Painful swallowing is known as odynophagia, which can be due to malignancy but more
commonly due to an infection such as candidiasis. Globus describes the sensation of having a lump in the throat and
this must be distinguished from dysphagia.
Dysphagia is caused by either:
Neurological pathology, which is commonly described as a functional problem. This can be further
subdivided into higher or lower dysphagia depending on which part of the nervous system is affected.
Structural pathology where there is pathology involving either the lumen, the oesophageal wall (mural) or
due to external compression of the oesophagus (extrinsic). Dysphagia due to luminal pathology is commonly
due to a foreign body. (See table below for specific conditions).
Functional causes
Structural causes
Higher dysphagia
Mural
Stroke
Parkinsons disease
Myasthenia gravis
Multiple Sclerosis
Oespophageal cancer
Pharyngeal pouch
Stricture: caustic or inflammatory
(hence we ask about previous GORD
and ulcers)
Lower dysphagia
Extrinsic
Achalasia
Diffuse oesophageal spasm
Bronchial carcinoma
Retrosternal goitre
Mediastinal mass
Radiological investigations
1.
Barium swallow: used in those with pathology high up in the oesophagus.
2.
Endoscopy: useful in those with luminal or mural pathology. Tissue samples can also be obtained through
this method for biopsy.
3.
Videofluoroscopy: useful in patients with suspected higher functional dysphagia.
4.
Oesophageal manometry: used to measure the pressures in the lower oesophageal sphincter and
peristalsis. Manometry is used for diagnosing motility disorders.
Treatment of dysphagia will depend on the cause. It is important to obtain a very clear and thorough history from
patients presenting with swallowing difficulties to aid the process of making a diagnosis.

1.
2.
Oxford Cases in Medicine and Surgery by Hugo Farne, Edward Norris-Cervetto, James Warbrick-Smith.
History Taking in Medicine and Surgery by Jonathan Fishman, Laura Fishman.
rd

Instructions:
Time:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Take a history from this 65-year-old patient who has presented to A&E after a fall. The
patient has also been complaining of palpitations. Offer a differential diagnosis at the end.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
Establishes that the patient lost consciousness prior to falling and regained
consciousness minutes after.
Establishes the circumstances of the patients fall, i.e. location, time, what they were
doing (e.g. exercising, getting out of bed, coughing or straining, extending their neck,
experiencing an intense emotion). In this case the patient was walking from their living
room to the kitchen in the afternoon.
Excludes mechanical cause of fall, i.e. tripping over something, and establishes that
the patient is mobile without walking aids and has normal vision.
5.
Establishes that a witness was present during the fall.
6.
Excludes seizure.
7.
Excludes headache or confusion after recovery.
8.
Excludes focal neurological symptoms after fall (e.g. loss of power, loss of sensation,
loss of vision, facial drooping, dysphagia, dysphasia).
9.
Excludes major injuries from the fall.
10.
Establishes a history of recurrent falls of a similar nature.
11.
Establishes that by "palpitations" the patient means that they are aware of their heart
beating.
12.
Excludes chest pain and shortness of breath.
13.
14.
Excludes anxiety disorder (symptoms include sweating, hyperventilation, dizziness,

nausea, fear, and can be caused by a trigger).
Past medical history (must specifically ask about epilepsy, stroke/TIA, heart
conditions, diabetes).
15.
16.
Family history.
17.
Social history.
18.
19.
Diagnosis: Atrial fibrillation/Stokes-Adams attack/supra-ventricular tachycardia/multifactorial fall.
20.
rd

Common causes of falls in the elderly
Falls are one of the most common presentations in elderly medicine and can be caused by a wide range of
pathologies. It is a serious matter that has a major impact on quality of life and has medical and social implications.
Dysrhythmias including atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia and Stokes-Adams attacks.

Mechanical falls can occur if the patient has difficulty mobilising due to weakness or disability. Visual
defects can also play a part in this. Often lack of mobility or poor vision will contribute to other potential
causes of falls.
Peripheral neuropathy can cause loss of proprioception, contributing to falls. It can be a complication of
long-standing diabetes.
Postural hypotension can cause syncope. It is diagnosed if there is fall of 20mmHg on lying to standing
blood pressure measurement. Causes include hypovolaemia, autonomic insensitivity with increasing age
and over-medication with hypotensive drugs.
Vasovagal syncope can occur after emotional stress, coughing, straining or standing up quickly. Prodromic
symptoms are often experienced, such as tinnitus, sweating, feeling hot, nausea and visual disturbances.
Epilepsy should be ruled out.
Multi-factorial falls occur when a combination of the above factors are present. This is often the case in
elderly patients.
Key investigations, etc.
Routine blood tests, including blood glucose.

ECG.
24hr ambulatory ECG (Holter tape).
Echocardiogram.
Lying (or sitting) to standing blood pressure.
Formal assessment of vision.
Physiotherapist assessment of mobility.
Formal neurological assessment including neuroimaging, if indicated.
Causes of palpitations
Palpitations describe an intermittent awareness of your own heartbeat. The heartbeat can be normal, slow or fast in
rate, and regular or irregular in rhythm. It is useful to ask the patient to tap out the rate and rhythm of their palpitations
to help determine the underlying problem.
Anxiety disorder is a term used to describe a range of psychiatric problems. It is a non-cardiac cause of
palpitations that should be ruled out from the history.
Tachycardia includes supraventricular tachycardia and ventricular tachycardia. Paroxysmal tachycardia
can occur due to junctional re-entry phenomena.
Bradycardia requires an increased stroke volume to maintain cardiac output. This can cause palpitations.
Atrial fibrillation is experienced as an irregularly irregular rhythm that can be slow or fast. The three main
causes of AF are: 1. Ischaemic heart disease, 2. Rheumatic heart disease and 3. Thyrotoxicosis.
Extrasystoles (premature beats) are often benign. They are felt by patients as missed beats.
Cardiomyopathy can cause dysrhythmias.
Key investigations, etc.
Routine blood tests, including thyroid function tests.

ECG.
24hr ambulatory ECG (Holter tape).
Exercise ECG.
Echocardiogram.

1.
2.
Recurrent falls. Patient UK. http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Recurrent-Falls.htm

Palpitations. Patient UK. http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Palpitations.htm
rd
History: Giving information Colonoscopy

Instructions:
Time:
1.
Please explain to this patient what a colonoscopy entails and give enough accurate
information so that they will be capable of giving informed consent to the procedure.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
PATIENT PERSPECTIVE (Ideas/Concerns/Expectations)
2.
Concerned about procedure what will happen?
3.
Is it painful or uncomfortable?
4.
What about work afterwards?
LIFESTYLE/RISK FACTORS IDENTIFICATION
5.
Enquires about both smoking and alcohol intake.
6.
Enquires about significant family history.
INFORMATION GIVING
7.
The test looks at large bowel using flexible tube.
8.
Safe test, discomfort should be minimal, can use IV sedation but not GA.
9.
Bowel needs to be empty laxatives will be provided, biopsy maybe taken.
10.
Complications rare, patient should not drive home afterwards.
ASSESSMENT OF UNDERSTANDING
11.
Checks understanding of information.
12.
Encourages patient questioning and identifies additional information needs

throughout.
SUMMARY
13.
Summarises all key points in the interview including patients concerns.
14.
Encourage the patient to ask questions and respond appropriately.
PATIENT/ACTOR ASSESSMENT
15.
Listen to concerns.
16.
Respond to concerns.
17.
Student respect and understanding of situation.
18.
Confidence in students knowledge.
19.
Behaviour/manner appropriate.
20.
Mark for excellence from actor.
rd
History: Haematuria
Instructions:
Time:
Take a focussed history of a 55-year-old patient who has presented with haematuria.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
Establishes whether microscopic or macroscopic.
3.
Establishes timing of the bleeding: beginning, end or throughout the stream.
4.
Establishes duration of symptoms.
5.
Presence of clots in the urine.
6.
Associated pain.
7.
Loin mass.
8.
Symptoms of UTI: urinary frequency, dysuria, suprapubic pain, foul-smelling urine.
9.
Symptoms of LUTS: urgency, frequency, hesitancy, strangury, poor stream, dribbling.
10.
Trauma to loin.
11.
Symptoms of malignancy: weight loss, anorexia, lethargy.
12.
Establishes past episodes of haematuria.
13.
Asks about past medical history (must include: renal stones, UTIs).
14.
Asks about drug and allergy history (must include: anticoagulants).
15.
16.
Asks about smoking.
17.
Asks about drinking.
18.
Asks about occupation and past exposure to carcinogens.
19.
20.
rd
History: Haematuria
!
Main differential diagnoses of frank haematuria and typical presenting histories
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Bladder cancer
Middle aged/elderly male, presenting with painless frank haematuria clots associated symptoms of
malignancy (weight loss, anorexia, fever etc). Risk factors of smoking, occupational exposure to chemical
carcinogens, e.g. rubber, textile, leather, paint industry.
Renal cell carcinoma
Middle aged/elderly male, presenting with triad of haematuria, loin pain and loin mass associated
symptoms of malignancy (weight loss, anorexia, fever, etc).
Renal stones
Male or female presenting with colicky loin pain radiating to groin haematuria (usually microscopic).
UTI
Female presenting with urinary frequency, dysuria, suprapubic pain and foul-smelling urine.
Bleeding from prostate
Elderly male with symptoms of LUTS and haematuria at end of stream with raised PSA.
Key investigations
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Urinalysis.
MSSU
a. Microscopy: confirms haematuria and help to distinguish medical and surgical causes.
b. Culture and sensitivity: confirms UTI.
CT urography: identifies lesions in the kidneys and ureters.
Cystoscopy: identifies lesions in the bladder.
Routine bloods: FBC, U&E, LFT, CRP, Coag.

1.
2.
th
Kumar P, Clark M. Kumar & Clarks Clinical medicine. 7 ed. Edinburgh: Saunders Elsevier, c2009.
nd
Feather A, Lumley JSP, Visvanathan R. OSCEs for medical students. Volume 2. 2 ed. Knutsford; Pastest;
2004.
rd
History: Headache
Instructions:
Time:
1.
2.
Take a focussed history of a 40-year-old patient who has presented with a headache and
suggest a diagnosis at the end.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
Asks specific questions about pain site, onset, character, radiation, associated
symptoms, timing, exacerbating/relieving factors, severity.
1/3 mark for each.

3.
Visual disturbances.
4.
Photophobia.
5.
Altered level of consciousness.
6.
Neck stiffness.
7.
Rash.
8.
Fever.
9.
Nausea and vomiting.
10.
Focal neurological signs (weakness, loss of sensation or paraesthesia).
11.
Aura (in migraines).
12.
Asks questions to exclude cancer weight loss, anorexia, fatigue.
13.
Past medical history.
14.
15.
Family history.
16.
Social history.
17.
18.
Diagnosis and mark for excellence.
rd
History: Headache
!
Classical presentations of headache

Tension-type headache
A gradual onset of global, tightening pain, of mild-moderate severity. The pain is non-pulsatile, not made
worse by physical activity.
This is the most common cause of headache.
Most occur episodically but 3% of population have chronic TTH.
Migraine
A gradual onset of unilateral, pulsating, moderate-severe pain that is aggravated by exercise, typically
lasting hours or days.
Associated symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, photophobia and phonophobia.
May or may not occur following an aura. An aura is a prodromic sensory phenomenon that ranges from
visual disturbance (e.g. flickering lights or blind spots) to paraesthesia. Auras can occur hours or days before
a migraine and typically last 5-60 minutes.
Cluster headache
A rapid onset of unilateral, sharp, non-pulsatile pain, typically felt behind the eye, at the temple, or at the
forehead.
Pain is severe and can be described as the worst ever felt.
Each episode lasts 45-90 minutes and characteristically occurs at the same time every day.
Subarachnoid haemorrhage
Classically described as a thunderclap headache that comes on suddenly and lasting only a few seconds.
The pain is often the worst ever experienced.
After the initial event, a less severe headache lingers for 1-2 weeks.
Associated symptoms may include seizures, vomiting, stiff neck and photophobia.
Meningitis
A severe, throbbing, global headache with classical associated symptoms, such as fever, neck stiffness,
altered consciousness, shock, Kernigs sign (pain and resistance on passive extension of the knee, when
the hip is in a flexed position) Brudzinskis sign (hips flex when flexing the neck forward), focal neurological
deficits and seizures.
Meningococcal meningitis is associated with a non-blanching purpuric rash found anywhere on the body.
Temporal arteritis
Classically an elderly lady complaining of a severe, dull headache with scalp tenderness when she combs
her hair and jaw ache when she eats.
Associated with polymyalgia rheumatica.
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
Classically a young, obese woman complaining of a two-week history of headaches that are worse in the
morning and on lying down.

1.
Headache. Patient UK. Available from: http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Headache.htm
rd
History: Hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis)

Instructions:
Time:
Take a history from this 35-year-old woman who presents with weight loss and heat
intolerance.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
Confirms weight loss, establishes amount of weight lost and over what period of time.
3.
Excludes other symptoms suggestive of malignancy (fatigue and loss of appetite).

Appetite is increased in hyperthyroidism, however, fatigue may be present.
Symptoms of hyperthyroidism:
4.
Tremor, irritability, sweating, heat intolerance, palpitations, oligomenorrhoea or

amenorrhoea (in females), loss of libido, altered mental state, anxiety, hair loss,
weakness, fatigue, diarrhoea.
See notes below.
1 mark each, up to a maximum of 8.

5.
Asks about neck swelling (goitre).
6.
Asks about visual loss/blurring (in Graves disease).
7.
Past medical history.
8.
Drug history.
9.
Family history.
10.
Social history.
11.
12.
Diagnosis: Hyperthyroidism (most likely Graves disease).
13.
rd
History: Thyroid
Hyperthyroidism
Causes
Graves disease is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism (thyrotoxicosis). It is an autoimmune

disease.
Toxic multinodular goitre is common in the elderly.
Toxic thyroid adenoma is a solitary benign tumour of the thyroid.
SYMPTOMS
Weight loss.
Increased appetite.
Heat intolerance.
Irritability.
Tremor.
Diarrhoea, palpitations, sweating,

breathlessness, oligomenorrhoea or
amenorrhoea, poor libido.
Visual disturbance (in Graves eye disease).
SIGNS
Tremor.
Hyperkinesis.
Tachycardia or atrial fibrillation.
Full pulse.
Warm peripheries.
Goitre.
Thyroid acropachy, pretibial myxoedema.
Exophthalmos, lid retraction (in Graves eye

disease).
Lid lag can be present in any cause of

hyperthyroidism and not just Graves disease.
Hypothyroidism
Causes
Primary hypothyroidism
Iodine deficiency is the most common cause of hypothyroidism worldwide, but is uncommon in the UK.
Autoimmune disease such as Hashimotos thyroiditis.
Iatrogenic due to treatment of hyperthyroidism with thyroidectomy or radioiodine therapy.
Secondary hypothyroidism
Impaired pituitary function causes reduced production of TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone). This can
result from, e.g. tumour, surgical or radiological damage.
Tertiary hypothyroidism
Impaired hypothalamic function causes reduced production of TRH (thyrotropin-releasing hormone).
SYMPTOMS
Lethargy.
Weight gain.
Cold intolerance.
Goitre.
Depression, constipation, menorrhagia or

oligomennorhoea, loss of appetite, arthralgia,
myalgia, poor libido.
SIGNS
Mental slowness.
Dry hair and hair thinning.
Dry skin.
Slow-relaxing reflexes.
Bradycardia.
Cold peripheries, hypothermia, hypertension,

oedema, carpal tunnel syndrome, ataxia.

1.
2.
3.
Hyperthyroidism. Patient UK. http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Hyperthyroidism-(Thyrotoxicosis).htm

Hypothyroidism. Patient UK. http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/Hypothyroidism.htm
th
Kumar and Clark, 6 Ed. The Thyroid Axis. p. 1071-1074.
rd
History: Jaundice
Instructions:
Time:
Take a history from this 50-year-old patient who presents with jaundice.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
Was the onset of the jaundice acute or chronic and who noticed it?
3.
Any pain associated with jaundice?
4.
Pale stools?
5.
Dark urine?
6.
Itch?
7.
Fever? Night sweats?
8.
Weight loss?
9.
Nausea and vomiting?
10.
Any recent foreign travel?
Past medical history: gallstones, liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes.
11.
2 marks available.
12.
Recent blood transfusion?
13.
Drug history: recent antibiotics. Allergies?
14.
Family history.
Social history: quantify alcohol intake, quantify smoking, IV drugs, tattoos.
15.
2 marks available.
16.
Sexual history: unprotected sex, multiple partners, previous sexually transmitted

infections.
17.
Summary.
18.
rd
History: Jaundice
Bilirubin metabolism
1.
2.
3.
Production of unconjugated bilirubin: Red blood cells are broken down in the spleen. Haemoglobin is
degraded into iron and unconjugated (water insoluble) bilirubin. Unconjugated bilirubin binds to albumin and
travels to the liver.
Conjugation of bilirubin occurs in the liver. Hepatocytes conjugate water insoluble bilirubin to glucuronate
therefore making it water soluble conjugated bilirubin. Conjugated bilirubin is secreted into the bile canaliculi.
Excretion of bilirubin: Conjugated bilirubin flows into the duodenum. Conjugated bilirubin is metabolised by
gut bacteria into urobilinogen and stercobilinogen. The urobilinogen and stercobilinogen is oxidised to
urobilin and stercobilin and excreted in faeces.
Jaundice
The causes of jaundice can be divided into pre-hepatic, hepatic and post-hepatic.
Pre-hepatic jaundice is caused by the excessive production of bilirubin. This can be due to increased breakdown of
red blood cells known as haemolysis. Unconjugated bilirubin accumulates in pre-hepatic jaundice.
Hepatic jaundice refers to jaundice caused by pathology of the liver itself such as hepatitis and primary sclerosing
cholangitis.
Post-hepatic jaundice is caused by problems with biliary flow. Obstructive jaundice is a specific type of post-hepatic
jaundice and is caused by lack of bile flow into the gut and these patients have pale stools (lack of urobilin/stercobilin)
and dark urine (conjugated bilirubin). Cholestatic jaundice is caused by bilirubin not flowing out via the common bile
duct and this may be due to obstruction (gallstone) or ileus affecting common bile duct peristalsis (drug-induced).
Investigations
Bloods
Urine
Imaging
FBC and reticulocyte count Low RBCs but high reticulocyte count.
suggests increased RBC turnover. If this is so proceed with a blood film.
Serum bilirubin levels confirms if the jaundice is due to
hyperbilirubinaemia.
Liver enzymes ALT>AST viral hepatitis.
AST> ALT excess alcohol intake.
Raised ALP and raised GT Bile duct pathology such as obstruction.
Serum amylase or lipase elevated levels suggest pancreatic pathology.
Urinalysis bilirubin in the urine is pathological and is due to post-hepatic
obstruction.
Ultrasound of pancreas and biliary tree gallstones.
Liver ultrasound cirrhosis, cancer.
Liver biopsy used to establish diagnosis.
MRCP.
ERCP.
CT of the abdomen.
Viral serology hepatitis.
Liver autoimmune profile primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing
cholangitis.

1.
2.
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Take a focussed history of a 40-year-old patient presenting with rectal bleeding.

5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
How much blood have you passed? Passing of clots?
3.
When did the symptoms start and how often does it occur?
4.
What is the colour of the blood?
5.
Relationship of blood to the stool blood mixed with the stool, blood separate from
the stool, blood only on the toilet paper.
6.
Any change in bowel habit and colour of stool?
7.
Sensation of something coming down when straining?
8.
Pain on passing stool.
9.
Abdominal pain.
10.
Sensation of incomplete emptying.
11.
Symptoms of anaemia: lethargy, shortness of breath.
12.
Asks questions to exclude cancer: weight loss, anorexia, fatigue.
Past medical history: previous rectal bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, recent
bowel surgery, bleeding tendency, previous haemorrhoids.
2 marks available.
13.
14.
Drug history: anticoagulants, antiplatelets. Allergies.
15.
Family history: polyps, bowel cancer.
16.
Social history: quantify smoking and alcohol drinking habits.
17.
Summary.
18.
Elicits the patients concerns sensitively.
19.
rd

!
Rectal bleeding
Rectal bleeding can be a very worrying symptom for patients and it is important when taking a history to inquire in a
sensitive manner.
Differential diagnosis of rectal bleeding can be classified according to local and general causes.
General causes include bleeding diatheses (anticoagulation therapy and haemophilia).
Local causes can be classified according to the anatomy.
Upper GI bleeding peptic ulcer which leads to melaena. Patient would be acutely unwell.
Caecum caecal carcinoma, polyps.
Colonic diverticular disease, angiodysplasia, colonic tumour, inflammatory bowel disease.
Anorectal haemorrhoids, rectal tumour, anal tumour, anal fissure.
Investigations
Blood: FBC, clotting, ESR.
Biochemistry: U+Es, LFTs, CRP, tumour markers (CEA carcinoembryonic antigen).
Faecal occult blood.
Microbiology: blood cultures, stool culture infective colitis.
Imaging
Abdominal X-ray obstruction.
Barium enema polyps, carcinoma, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, ischaemic colitis.
Liver ultrasound metastases.
CT chest, abdomen, pelvis staging of carcinoma.
Sigmoidoscopy biopsy anorectal tumours.
Colonoscopy biopsy diverticular disease, polyps, colonic tumours, angiodysplasia.

1.
2.
rd

Instructions:
Time:
Take a focussed history of a 60-year-old patient who has presented with breathlessness.
5 minutes.
Task
Marks
1.
2.
Establishes timing of onset.
3.
Establishes level of activity patient can manage.
4.
Exacerbating and alleviating factors.
5.
Cough.
6.
Sputum.
7.
Chest pain.
8.
Haemoptysis.
9.
Wheeze.
10.
Fever.
11.
Symptoms of malignancy: weight loss, night sweats, anorexia, sleep disturbance.
12.
Orthopnoea, Paroxysmal Nocturnal Dyspnoea (PND), ankle swelling.
13.
Asks about past medical and surgical history .
14.
Asks about drug and allergy history.
15.
Asks about risk factors and social history:
16.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Smoking.
Drinking.
Occupation and past exposure to asbestos, particulates.
Pets.
Recent travel.
Home circumstances.
mark for each.
17.
18.
rd

Main differential diagnoses and typical presenting histories

Timing of onset is very important in considering the differential diagnoses.
Within seconds to minutes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Acute asthma attack

Pulmonary embolism
Typically, history of sudden onset shortness of breath, pleuritic chest pain haemoptysis in someone with
a hot, swollen, tender calves (DVT) or other risk factors for blood clots (surgery, malignancy, pregnancy,
period of immobility).
Pneumothorax
Sudden onset of breathlessness pleuritic chest pain.
Anaphylaxis, inhaled foreign body
History will be indicative in these cases; e.g. sudden onset of breathlessness, wheeze, oedema, rash after
stung by a bee.
Within hours to days:

5.
6.
Pneumonia
Cough and sputum pleuritic chest pain, breathlessness accompanied by fever/rigors, malaise.
Pleural effusion
History mainly of breathlessness. Diagnosis suspected on examination findings: reduced chest expansion,
stony dullness to percussion, reduced breath sounds and vocal resonance.
Within weeks to months:

7.
COPD
Chronic smoker presenting with progressive breathlessness, productive cough on most days of 3 months for
2 consecutive years wheeze.
8. Chronic asthma
Typically, younger patient with history of reversible cough, wheeze, shortness of breath, chest tightness
particularly worse at night, during exercise, exposure to allergens, cold or drugs such as NSAIDs. Past
medical history of other atopic illnesses: hay fever, atopic eczema and positive family history.
9. Heart failure
Breathlessness on exertion, orthopnoea, PND and ankle swelling. There is usually a history of
cardiovascular disease suggesting a cause for heart failure, e.g. previous MI, valvular disease, etc.
10. Pulmonary fibrosis
Typically, history of progressive breathlessness. May have history of risk factors/causes of pulmonary
fibrosis, e.g. exposure to asbestos and particulates, exposure to drugs, e.g. methotrexate.
Key investigations
1.
2.
3.
4.
CXR.
ECG.
Routine bloods: FBC, U&E, LFT, CRP, glucose.
Consider sputum/blood culture, PEFR, ABG, d-dimers, pulmonary function tests.

1.
2.
st
Colledge NR et al. Davidsons principles and practice of medicine. 21 ed. Edinburgh; Elsevier: 2010.
Farne H, Norris-Cervetto E, Warbrick-Smith J. Oxford Cases in Medicine and Surgery. Oxford; Oxford
University Press: 2010.

3-5th Year Osce

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3rd 5th Year OSCE

Notes and mock mark schemes

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

A note on the contents

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

3 Year Mock OSCE Mark Scheme

Perform a full breast examination on this breast model/patient.

Explains procedure and gains consent.

Washes hands before and after examination.

General inspection (e.g. cachexia, distress).

Inspects breasts with patients arms by her side.

Inspects breasts and axillae with hands on hips.

Palpates four quadrants of breasts.

Palpates axillary tail.

Palpates lymph nodes (axillary, supraclavicular head and neck).

Describes masses appropriately: site, size, shape, consistency, surface, temperature,

Summarises findings and offers differential diagnosis.

Mark for excellence.

Circle: Pass / Borderline Pass / Fail

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

Total marks: ______ / 20

3 Year OSCE Revision Course Notes

How to describe a lump

Always check local lymph nodes if lump is found.

Overlying skin changes tethering, peau dorange.

Surgery, including lymph nodes and reconstruction.

Endocrine agents e.g. Tamoxifen, Herceptin. Pathology instructs which to use.

And for distant disease, palliation.

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

3 Year Mock OSCE Mark Scheme

Please assess this patient for signs of cerebellar dysfunction.

Introduction, identifies patient and gains consent.

Washes hands before and after examination.

General inspection, commenting on abnormal posturing or movements if present,

Asks patient to perform tandem walking.

Tests for nystagmus.

Asks patient to say, baby hippopotamus/British constitution/West Registry Street,

Tests tone of upper limbs.

Tests reflexes of upper limbs.

Tests for dysdiadochokinesis of hands.

Tests for intention tremor/pass pointing/dysmetria with finger-to-nose test.

Tests for rebound on outstretched arms.

Tests tone of lower limbs.

Tests reflexes of lower limbs.

Tests for dysmetria with heel-to-shin test.

Summarises key findings and offers differential diagnosis.

Mark for excellence.

Circle: Pass / Borderline Pass / Fail

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

Total marks: ______ / 20

3 Year OSCE Revision Course Notes

Stroke (Ischaemic and Haemorrhagic).

Broad-based, unsteady gait.

Before you panic Remember:

Dysdiadochokinesis: unable to perform rapid, alternating movements.

Bibliography and further reading

Peer-Assisted Learning Initiative / Glasgow University Medical School / peerassisted.org

3 Year Mock OSCE Mark Scheme

Cranial nerves III-VII examination

Examine this patients cranial nerves III-VII.

Introduces self and checks patients identity.

Direct and consensual.