PLAB 2 is an objective structured clinical exam (OSCE). It comprises 18 scenarios, each of which lasts eight minutes. Furthermore, they mirror real life settings with the help of a mock consultation or an acute ward.
PLAB 2 Exam Content
The PLAB exam syllabus includes everything a UK trained doctor gets to see on the first day of Foundation Year 2 (FY 2/F2). It further tests the ability to apply knowledge to the care of the patients.
Marking of the scenarios represents the current best practice in the UK. Moreover, candidates should deal with them in relation to published evidence and not according to the local arrangements.
In addition, the names of drugs referred to in the exam are contained in the most recent edition of the British National Formulary (BNF).
Structure Of the Exam
The duration of PLAB 2 exam is three hours and ten minutes. One and a half minutes is allowed between test scenarios. Besides, this time period is for reading the instructions and patient information.
Candidates are marked against three key areas for each scenario. They are data gathering, technical and assessment skills.
i.e. History taking, physical examination, practical procedures, investigations leading to a diagnosis.
Next is clinical management skills. They include formulating a diagnosis, explaining something to the patient and formulating a management plan.
Third in line is interpersonal skills. This is all about approaching the station. Whether the candidate establishes a rapport with the patient, how one uses open and closed questioning, involving the patient. Your demonstration of professionalism and ethical principles also falls under this.
When marking against the domains the examiner will assess your competency across a number of skill areas listed below:
Clinical Examination
The examiner will access your ability to conduct a physical examination of a simulated patient. This will usually be an actor who is trained to display signs when required. An anatomical model may also be used for certain examinations.
Practical skills
The examiner will assess you on your ability to perform common practical procedures. Again, they may ask you to deal with a simulated patient or an anatomical model.
Interpersonal Skills
The GMC test these skills by observing the interaction between you and another person. A simulated patient is used or occasionally the examiner. The examiner will assess your approach to the patient throughout the examination.
After passing the PLAB 1 and PLAB 2 exams, you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Your application must be approved within 2 years of passing PLAB 2. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.
Hope you found this information helpful. All the best for your PLAB 2 exam!!
