Mock examiner feedback for a free mock performed on 10/06/2024
Time Management
Equal Division of Time:
Allocate 4 minutes for data gathering and 4 minutes for management.
IPS (Interpersonal Skills) is assessed throughout the entire consultation.
Two-Minute Bell:
Use the two-minute bell as a signal to start the management phase.
Do not wait until the bell; aim to finish data gathering within 4 minutes.
Data Gathering
Patient Identification:
Always ask for the patient's full name and age.
Presenting Complaint:
Start with an open question to elaborate on the patient's complaint.
Use open-ended questions to encourage the patient to reveal the main issue.
Formulating Differentials:
Immediately think of differential diagnoses upon hearing the presenting complaint.
Prioritize the most critical potential issues first.
Structured Questions:
Ask focused questions to rule out serious conditions (e.g., cancer, depression).
Use symptom-specific questions to narrow down the diagnosis.
Key Areas to Cover in Data Gathering
Medical History:
Past medical history, medications, and family history.
Social History:
Assess the patient's support structure, family, job, and activities.
ICE (Ideas, Concerns, and Expectations):
Ask about the patient’s ideas, concerns, and what they hope to achieve from the consultation.
Examination:
Perform necessary examinations as part of data gathering.
Management Phase
Diagnosis Explanation:
Offer an explanation of the diagnosis briefly and check the patient's understanding.
Treatment Options:
Discuss all treatment options including medications and therapy sessions.
Crisis Plan:
Develop a plan for the patient to follow if they experience severe symptoms or suicidal tendencies.
Provide emergency contact numbers or support resources.
Addressing Concerns:
Incorporate the patient's concerns and support needs into the management plan.
Final Steps (Two-Minute Bell):
Ensure to include safety netting, follow-up, and provide leaflets or pamphlets.
Interpersonal Skills (IPS)
Empathy and Signposting:
Show empathy throughout the consultation.
Signpost changes in the line of questioning to prepare the patient.
Listening and Response:
Actively listen and respond appropriately to the patient's statements.
Improvement Points
Internal Time Awareness:
Develop an internal clock to manage time effectively without relying on external cues.
Consultation Flow:
Maintain a logical flow in the consultation without abrupt changes in topics.
Avoid Unnecessary Permissions:
Do not ask for permission to ask questions; proceed with necessary inquiries confidently.
Focus on Main Issues:
Identify and address the patient's main issues rather than peripheral symptoms.
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