Exam Center: Atlanta Exam Date: 28.September.2010 Result: Passed Weeks for Result: 10 My Experience: I was a repeater appearing for the 3 time. I prepared for 2 weeks; did all the cases from UWORLD and FA. Self practised this time as I had practised with a friend for the previous 2 attempts. Most of the cases were straight forward and expected. Even when I knew the diagnosis I attempted to explore the differential diagnosis in history taking but confined the physical examination to the relevant presenting complaint, probably I did not spend more than 3 minutes for the physical examination. Completed all the cases in time and chose to write the patient note. All the SP's were cordial and easily gave information though quite a few of them asked challenging questions. My Advice & My Errors: I passed the third time. I was well prepared for the prevoius 2 attempts and expected to clear the exam; but however I could not. When I had the score report I analysed the mistakes which proved detrimental. The score card for the first time showed that I failed the CIS and SEP part and then I realised that I spoke too fast for the patient to understand; also during one of the physical examinations I put a tongue depressor in a patient's mouth and she yelled. The second time I passed CIS and SEP and failed ICE ( both data gathering and data documentation). It occurred to me this time that some of the patients resisted physical examination and seeing their reluctance I did not perform it. The point I am trying to make is that these patients may act tough and resist examination; but u need to convince them of the necessity of the procedure, remember they are asked to act this way so as to test ur communication skills and therby establish a rapport with them. Also speak clear and slow english, vocabulary doesn't matter but clarity surely does. For the ICE, concentrate on Differential diagnosis during history taking( but not necessary for Physical examination); most importantly while summarising repeat all the positive and negative answers given by SP because at this point of time the SP would be concentrating to get a grasp of your questionnainre. Remember that an imprudent step in any of encounter would take ur performance band to a lower level and therby mar a passing chance. Lastly, write a well written patient note as a well written patient note would help to elevate ur performance band in ICE and negate insufficient data gathering. My Stay / Cost / Travel to Center: stayed at best western hotel, gives CS discount,provides a shuttle to exam centre, near to the centre. whole trip costed me about 1200USD Name : limca

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