Clinical Skills OSCE

The Clinical Skills OSCE (DOPS + Stations) module is designed to stop MPharm students freezing the moment they’re handed equipment, a checklist, and a silent examiner with a pen. This module focuses on practical execution, not vague theory, building confidence in performing and explaining core clinical skills under OSCE conditions.

The course begins with a structured consultation framework, teaching students how to open an interaction, explore ICE (ideas, concerns, expectations), and safety-net clearly and concisely. Emphasis is placed on structure, timing, and examiner-friendly communication. Students will also learn how to document consultations in a way that aligns with OSCE marking criteria, avoiding the common mistake of doing the skill correctly but scoring poorly.

Core clinical observations and measurements are then covered in detail, including manual blood pressure measurement, capillary blood glucose testing, and pain assessment. Each skill is broken down into indications, step-by-step method, common errors, and infection control, reflecting how marks are actually awarded.

The module progresses into focused physical assessments, including respiratory peak flow measurement and targeted examinations of the ear, throat, lymph nodes, and skin. Students will learn what examiners expect to see, what can be verbalised rather than performed, and how to interpret findings safely.

Point-of-care testing, particularly urinalysis, is covered with an emphasis on interpretation, common pitfalls, and appropriate escalation. Throughout the module, skills are taught using DOPS-style logic, reinforcing clarity, confidence, and consistency rather than rushed improvisation.

Practice is framed around OSCE stations and real marking schemes, helping students move from “I know this” to “I can do this under pressure”.