Top 7 Communication Mistakes That Cost Doctors Marks in OSCE Stations

Common Pitfalls Observed in the Exam Room

Examiners sit just feet away with marking sheets. Here are the most frequent avoidable errors that deduct crucial points:

1. **Jargon Overload**: Using terms like "myocardial infarction", "dyspepsia", or "haematuria" instead of plain terms like heart attack, indigestion, or blood in the urine. 2. **Ignoring Verbal Cues**: When a patient sighs or expresses hesitation, continuing down your symptom checklist without acknowledging it. 3. **Panicking at the 2-Minute Bell**: When the announcement sounds: *"Two minutes remaining"*, many candidates rush into a fast monologue instead of collaboratively summarizing next steps. 4. **Neglecting ICE**: Failing to elicit what the patient specifically worries about (Ideas, Concerns, Expectations). 5. **No Safety Netting**: Ending the station without instructing the patient when to seek urgent emergency medical attention.