The road is made significantly simpler now that the OET / IELTS are over and done with. There are only two more tests which are PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 needed before you can apply to become a doctor in the UK. Get rid of them already and reserve them as soon as you can find a date that works!
What is PLAB 1?
It is a written multiple-choice test with 180 single best answer questions (SBAs) that is computer marked. Every question begins with a brief scenario, which is then followed by the query, such as "What is the one most likely diagnosis?" Out of the five options, A to E, you must select the correct one.
What is included in the PLAB 1 exam?
When the timer begins, one A4-sized booklet will be provided to you. At the conclusion of this booklet are the normal lab values in addition to all the questions. There are 180 problems in this fairly thick booklet, with 4-5 questions on each page. The inquiries that require an ECG or photos are on a separate piece of paper that is tucked inside the query it corresponds to.
You will not receive credit for the question if you provide more than one response on the solution sheet. Additionally, there are no deductions for wrong answers, so no matter what, submit a response. There could be pictures, ECGs, and x-rays on the test paper. One double-sided answer sheet with directions will be provided to you at the exam. The details requested at the top of the sheet must be filled out. It will appear as follows:
Locating the PLAB 1 test location
You'll receive a text with directions and an arrival time deadline. Under no conditions be late. The test will take three hours. When planning your exam timing, bear in mind that you won't be permitted to leave the exam room during the first and last 30 minutes of the exam.
What to carry on the day of PLAB 1
Bring at least two HB pencils, an eraser, and a pencil sharpener, as well as your visa and booking confirmation. Don't bring anything pricey to the test because you cannot bring your bag, phone, or study materials inside the exam room. Please read more here if you would like more information about the exam environment, acceptable behaviors , and the number of exam tries you have. To help you get a general idea of the subjects covered in the exam, GMC has also given a Blueprint. The blueprint will outline what will be covered by the part 1 questions, but it won't outline the questions or situations you will encounter on test day.
What is PLAB 2?
The test's second section, which is an actual evaluation, is called an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). NEVER BE LATE. Attempt to find the testing location in advance so you can get there quickly on the day of your exam.
What to wear for PLAB 2?
Remember that the dress code is the same as it would be in any UK clinical environment. Neither a clean coat nor an apron are required. Simply wear semi-professional clothing and keep your arms outstretched. Avoid wearing any overly ornate jewellery, such as bracelets, bands, or watches. Please wear a collared blouse instead of a tie, guys. When examining a patient while wearing a hijab or scarf, tuck in any free ends to prevent them from falling on the patient. Long hair is the same way. Pull it up and secure any stray threads with pins.
ID check for PLAB 2
Before your exam begins, an ID verification will be conducted. Verify your booking confirmation carefully to determine which papers GMC wants you to bring to the exam. Both your passport and the proof of your reservation are required. A photo will be obtained after your identity has been verified. After that, you'll receive an ID card and lanyard to wear throughout the test.
How is the OSCE conducted for PLAB 2?
Once everyone has had their IDs checked, you will all be led into an area with coffee and pastries. In case you're feeling puckish, have a tiny snack. Then a brief video that describes what to anticipate in the exam room will be shown to you. Following the conclusion of the video, you will receive a brief pep talk before entering a room outside the exam room, where you will be provided a cubby to store your possessions. If you don't have pockets, you will be handed a small key that you can affix to your lanyard.
By that time, you will have realized that your ID card has a number on it. You will begin at this location, and this is how you will line up in advance. You will then be led into the exam room after being requested to line up in a queue according to your number. Please read and and here if you need more information about the exam environment, what conduct is anticipated of you, and how many chances you have to pass the test
Assessment of PLAB 2 OSCE
Below is an example of the mark sheet you will be graded against:
As you can see, each OSCE site will receive a grade based on the following three domains:
- Data gathering
- Clinical management
- Interpersonal skills
And below are the talent sets you must demonstrate.
- Consultation
- Diagnosis
- Examination
- Findings
- Issues
- Language
- Listening
- Management
- Rapport
- Time
For further information regarding the marking system, read more here.
To conclude
Once the test is over and you've given it your all, take a moment to unwind. You don't need to be concerned about your results because I am certain that you will pass with ease.
Please check our blog on Preparation for PLAB 1
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