SECTION A: THE EXAMINATION

Introduction: What is the “OSCE” or “CSA”?

Who is the Standardized (Simulated) Patient?

The Day of the Test

Beginning the Standardized Patient Encounter

Developing the Checklist

The History

The Physical Examination

Physical Examination Findings That May Be Seen in a

Standardized Patient

Five Simple Steps to Effective Communication

Improving Interpersonal Skills Quickly

Common Communication Challenges

The Interstation or Patient Note: How to Pass the Written Part

SECTION B: 57 PRACTICE CASES

General Case Instructions

Presenting Problems

SECTION C: THE FINAL WORK-OUT

Some Challenging Cases

The Common Encounters for Each Specialty

SECTION D: CSA UPDATE

Improving Your Communication Skills Quickly

The Day of the CSA

The Top Ten Causes of CSA Failure

CSA Practice Case Scenarios

The Final Preparation: A Review of the Common CSA Case Scenarios

References

Index of Practice Cases

Index