OSCE performance improves fastest when you stop improvising and start running a consistent station structure. The structure protects you under stress: you remember to introduce yourself, clarify the task, gather relevant data, and close safely — even when you’re nervous.
Context (MLA / CPSA)
In the UK, the CPSA is a performance-based assessment of clinical and professional skills, knowledge, and behaviours. Regardless of station content, the same structure repeatedly wins marks.
1
Step 1 — Opening (20 seconds)
Introduce yourself, confirm patient identity, consent, and the task. If you do this smoothly, everything else becomes easier.
2
Step 2 — Agenda + expectations (20–30 seconds)
State what you plan to do: 'I’ll ask a few questions, examine if needed, then explain my thoughts and next steps.'
3
Step 3 — Focused data-gathering (3–5 minutes)
Use a structure (presenting complaint → red flags → relevant systems → PMH/drugs/allergies → ICE where relevant). Keep it targeted to the station.
4
Step 4 — Synthesis out loud (30–45 seconds)
Summarise and name your top hypotheses or priorities. This earns marks because it shows clinical reasoning, not only question-asking.
5
Step 5 — Plan + shared decision framing (2–3 minutes)
Explain next steps, checks, safety netting, and follow-up. Use simple language and confirm understanding.
6
Step 6 — Close (20 seconds)
Recap, safety net, questions, thank you. A clean close prevents losing easy marks at the end.
Common failure mode
Over-talking early and running out of time for synthesis, plan, and safety netting. Structure protects you from yourself.
SourceGMC — CPSA overview (MLA component)
Open Link SourceGMC — CPSA requirements (PDF)
Open Link