Nikhil Pawa - Succeeding in the MRCS Part B Exam: Essential revision notes for the OSCE format

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Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the material contained within this guide. However it must be noted that medical treatments, drug dosages/formulations, equipment, procedures and best practice are currently evolving within the field of medicine.

Readers are therefore advised always to check the most up-to-date information relating to:

The applicable drug manufacturers product information and data sheets relating to recommended dose/formulation, administration and contraindications.

The latest applicable local and national guidelines.

The latest applicable local and national codes of conduct and safety protocols.

It is the responsibility of the practitioner, based on their own knowledge and expertise, to diagnose, treat and ensure the safety and best interests of the patient are maintained.

The MRCS Part B examination is a crucial landmark during a surgical career, associated with high levels of anxiety. The recent changes in the exam format and the ongoing updates of the syllabus according to newly generated evidence render effective preparation a challenging process. Considering that revision is usually undertaken beyond the working hours of a busy surgical job (sometimes in a means of transportation during commuting!), with limited available study leave (or none at all!), a stand-alone revision aid that would consolidate the knowledge and methodology you need to master in order to succeed, would be a valuable guide for your preparation.

Having been through the same stressful process ourselves not so long ago, we prepared this book having in mind your needs and aimed to:

Incorporate an overview of the topics that need to be covered during preparation;

Arrange the order of chapters to follow the following examined key areas: anatomy and surgical pathology, applied surgical science and critical care, communication skills in giving and receiving information, history taking and clinical and procedural skills;

Classify pieces of information in tables easy to access and refer to;

Offer additional sources of information for further study, recommending dynamic resources (web-based and videos), to ensure that your preparation is kept up-to-date with changing evidence;

Present the topics by simulating exam questions and conditions, when possible;

Offer tips for a successful performance, beyond the sterile reproduction of knowledge, focusing on aspects of communication and examination skills.

We hope that, by achieving the above, this book will guide you through a strong preparation and will help you face the examination confidently reaching a high performance. You have our warmest wishes for your efforts in succeeding in the MRCS Part B.