OSCE Talk

Osce Talk

OSCE Talk is a podcast designed to help medical students feel more confident in clinical exams. Hosted by UK resident doctors, each episode focuses on one condition or station, breaking down what to ask, what to look for, and what matters in your OSCE. Fast, practical, and exam-focused.

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40 episodes
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Avg 9 min
English

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April 16 · 12 min
Parkinson’s Disease Explained | Symptoms, Causes, Differentials & Management | OSCE TALK
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Parkinson’s Disease in a clear, structured, and clinically relevant way. We start with what Parkinson’s actually is — a progressive neurodegenerative condition caused by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra — and explain how this leads to the classic features of Parkinsonism. We then cover the key clinical features using the TRAP mnemonic (Tremor, Rigidity, Akinesia/Bradykinesia, Postural Instability), alongside important non-motor symptoms such as autonomic dysfunction, sleep disturbance, and cognitive changes. We also go through how Parkinson’s presents in real life — from subtle early symptoms like loss of smell and reduced dexterity, to more advanced disease with falls, hallucinations, and functional decline. A key focus of this episode is learning how to think through differentials, including: Drug-induced Parkinsonism Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) Lewy Body Dementia Essential Tremor We explain how to distinguish these conditions in exams and clinical practice. Finally, we cover investigation and management, including the role of levodopa, dopamine agonists, and key practical points for the wards — such as never stopping Parkinson’s medications abruptly. This episode is designed to help you recognise Parkinson’s, differentiate it safely, and approach it confidently in OSCEs and real clinical settings. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
April 11 · 11 min
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Explained | Causes, Symptoms, Staging & Management (OSCE Guide)
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in a clear, structured, and clinically relevant way. We cover what CKD actually is, how to recognise it, and—most importantly—how to approach it safely as a medical student or junior doctor. We start with the definition of CKD and why it matters, before working through the most common causes, including diabetes, hypertension, and nephrotoxic medications. We then explain the underlying pathophysiology, including nephron loss, hyperfiltration, and why proteinuria develops—linking this directly to key treatments like ACE inhibitors and SGLT2 inhibitors. We also cover how CKD presents in real life, from asymptomatic early disease picked up on routine bloods, to advanced uraemia, fluid overload, and complications like anaemia and bone disease. From there, we go through a practical and safe approach to: Investigations (eGFR, ACR, bloods, imaging) Staging (GFR + albuminuria) Management (blood pressure control, diabetes optimisation, medication choices) Complication management (anaemia, bone disease, electrolyte imbalance) We also touch on end-stage kidney disease, including dialysis (haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis) and renal transplant. Finally, we finish with a clear, structured approach to explaining CKD to a patient in an OSCE, using a simple framework you can apply in exams and clinical practice. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
April 10 · 10 min
Hyperkalaemia Emergency Management | OSCE Talk
This episode focusses on hyperkalaemia and its emergency management.We work through the common causes of hyperkalaemia including renal disease, medications, DKA, burns and rhabdomyolysis. Alongside this we review common ECG changes of peaked T Waves, flattened P waves, and broad QRS segments. We look at the need for calcium gluconate, insulin, dextrose, salbutamol and potassium binders to prevent arrest in these patients. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z....🍎 Apple Podcasts → ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast....▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_ Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
March 30 · 11 min
Ectopic Pregnancy Overview, History, and Counselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In this episode we focus on the pathophysiology of ectopic pregnancy, alongside risk factors, and clinical presentation. We discuss what investigations are required, how to manage ectopic pregnancies that are stable vs emergency management and the need to get senior obstetrics/gynaecology input early. Peter talks through how to counsel patients sensitively on this condition also. We finish with a mock example history going through the key signs and symptoms to pick up on in these patients. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z....🍎 Apple Podcasts → ⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast....▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_ Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
March 24 · 9 min
Paediatric Limp - MSK Overview | OSCE Talk 🎙️
This episode focusses on the main causes of paediatric limp and MSK evaluation - the main conditions covered are DDH, Perthes Disease, Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, Transient Synovitis and Septic Arthritis alongside Osteosarcoma. We go through the main risk factors, diagnostic methods and treatment options for these. Alongside red flags for paediatric limp to not miss in medical school exams and in clinical practice. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z..⁠.🍎 Apple Podcasts → ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast..⁠.▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_
March 20 · 11 min
Neonatal Jaundice Made EASY | Red Flags You MUST Know for OSCEs
Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common paediatric presentations you will encounter in both exams and clinical practice. While most cases are physiological and harmless, recognising the red flags is essential to avoid missing serious underlying pathology. In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break neonatal jaundice down into a clear, structured approach that you can apply in OSCEs and on the wards. We cover the key pathophysiology, including how bilirubin is produced and processed, and why unconjugated bilirubin can cross the blood–brain barrier and cause neurological injury. Understanding this is crucial when thinking about complications such as kernicterus. We then explain physiological jaundice, including its typical onset after 24 hours of life, peak around days 3 to 5, and resolution within the first one to two weeks. This helps you build a strong baseline before identifying what is abnormal. The most important part is recognising pathological jaundice. You should always be concerned if jaundice appears within the first 24 hours, persists beyond 14 days, or is associated with pale stools and dark urine. These features suggest serious conditions such as haemolysis, sepsis, or biliary atresia. A baby who is lethargic, feeding poorly, or clinically unwell should always raise suspicion. We also go through investigations in a practical way, including when to use transcutaneous bilirubin measurements and when serum bilirubin is required. Differentiating between conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin is key to guiding diagnosis and management. Other important tests include blood group compatibility, Coombs testing, and infection screening where appropriate. From an OSCE perspective, we outline how to structure your history and examination. This includes focusing on timing, feeding, stool and urine colour, and red flag symptoms, as well as performing a targeted examination for hydration, neurological status, and abdominal findings. Finally, we cover management, including the use of NICE treatment threshold charts, phototherapy as first-line treatment, and when escalation to exchange transfusion is required. This is a high-yield topic that frequently appears in OSCEs and written exams. Mastering neonatal jaundice will not only help you perform well in assessments but also ensure safe clinical practice.
March 15 · 11 min
Obstetric Haemorrhage History Taking | OSCE Talk🎙️
This episode focusses on obstetic history taking and haemorrhage. Looking at the differentials of antepartum haemorrhage to be aware of including: placental abruption, placenta previa/vasa previa. Other causes of haemorrhage in the perinatal period including miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy. We look at how best to approach management of these in an exam scenario, including the need for adequate examination, resuscitation and key investigations including bloods, ultrasound and CTG monitoring. We finish this episode with a quick example history. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z...🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_
March 11 · 9 min
Schizophrenia OSCE: First Rank Symptoms Explained (Psychiatry History Guide)
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we cover schizophrenia and Schneider’s First Rank Symptoms, one of the most important concepts for psychiatry OSCEs and medical exams. Schizophrenia rarely begins suddenly. Many patients experience a prodromal phase first, where family members may notice social withdrawal, reduced motivation, changes in behaviour, sleep disturbance and declining daily functioning. Over time this can progress into psychosis, where patients may develop hallucinations, delusions and disturbances in thought. In this episode we break down Schneider’s First Rank Symptoms of schizophrenia, explaining what they are, how they present clinically, and how to explore them safely during a psychiatric history. We also discuss the positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia and how they affect patients’ ability to function day-to-day. • Auditory hallucinations (voices commenting or discussing the patient) • Command hallucinations • Thought insertion • Thought withdrawal • Thought broadcasting • Passivity phenomena (external control of thoughts, actions or emotions) • Delusional perception Symptoms added to normal experience: • Hallucinations • Delusions • Thought disorder • Disorganised behaviour Loss of normal functioning: • Reduced motivation (avolition) • Social withdrawal • Reduced speech (alogia) • Flattened emotional expression • Reduced engagement with daily activities • Impaired working memory • Reduced concentration • Executive dysfunction • Difficulty with organisation and decision-making When assessing a patient with schizophrenia or psychosis it is essential to evaluate: • Risk to self (including suicidal thoughts) • Risk to others • Command hallucinations • Vulnerability and exploitation • Self-neglect • Ability to function independently Collateral history from family or carers can often be essential because patients may lack insight into their symptoms. Psychotic symptoms can also occur in: • Bipolar disorder (mania) • Psychotic depression • Delirium • Drug-induced psychosis • Alcohol withdrawal • Neurological or organic brain disease Organic causes should always be considered and may require investigations such as CT brain, MRI brain or EEG. Management of schizophrenia often involves: • Antipsychotic medications (e.g. olanzapine, risperidone, clozapine) • Psychological therapies • Community mental health team follow-up • Inpatient psychiatric care if risk is high In OSCE stations, it is important to explain schizophrenia in simple terms: Schizophrenia affects how the brain processes information and filters thoughts and perceptions. This can lead to hearing voices, developing strong beliefs that don’t match reality, or finding it difficult to organise thoughts. Treatments are available that help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Follow OSCE Talk for practical OSCE teaching, psychiatry revision and clinical explanations for medical students. 📚 Key Topics CoveredFirst Rank Symptoms of SchizophreniaPositive SymptomsNegative SymptomsCognitive Symptoms⚠️ Risk Assessment in Psychosis🧠 Differential Diagnoses for Psychosis💊 Management Overview🗣 Explaining Schizophrenia to Patients Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
February 22 · 7 min
Clozapine: The Gold Standard for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
In this episode, we break down clozapine — the gold standard treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Clozapine is one of the most effective antipsychotics available, but it requires careful monitoring and patient education due to its unique side-effect profile. We cover: • What defines treatment-resistant schizophrenia • Why clozapine is used • Mechanism of action (high-yield overview) • Smoking interactions and compliance issues • Slow titration and 48-hour restart rule • Agranulocytosis and blood monitoring schedule • Myocarditis risk • Seizure risk • Severe constipation (often underestimated) • Metabolic side effects • Clozapine and suicide risk reduction • How to counsel a patient in an OSCE We also discuss key red flags — including infection symptoms that require urgent assessment. This episode is ideal for: Medical students OSCE preparation Psychiatry placements Foundation doctors GP and acute care rotations Clozapine is powerful — but only safe when monitored properly.
February 22 · 9 min
Don’t Miss These Obstetric Red Flags! History Taking for Exams & Practice
In this episode, we break down how to take a safe, structured obstetric history. Obstetric histories can feel overwhelming — you’re assessing both the mother and the baby, while also screening for potentially life-threatening complications. This episode gives you a clear structure to stay safe in exams and clinical practice. We cover: • How to structure the presenting complaint • Characterising bleeding, pain and discharge • Reduced fetal movements • Head-to-toe maternal screening • Current pregnancy history (scans, screening, complications) • Past obstetric history • Medical and medication history in pregnancy • Vaccines and supplements (folic acid) • Social history and safeguarding • Key red flags (pre-eclampsia, abruption, PE, DVT, sepsis) • When to escalate urgently This episode is ideal for: Medical students OSCE preparation Obstetrics & gynaecology placements GP and emergency medicine rotations Foundation doctors A clear structure keeps you safe — both in exams and in real clinical settings.
February 21 · 6 min
Lithium Counselling Made Clear! OSCE Structure, Monitoring & Toxicity Explained
In this episode, we break down lithium — how it works, when it’s used, how to monitor it safely, and how to counsel a patient in an OSCE station. Lithium is one of the most effective long-term treatments for bipolar disorder and significantly reduces suicide risk — but it requires careful monitoring and patient education. We cover: • Indications for lithium (bipolar disorder & treatment-resistant depression) • How lithium stabilises mood • Therapeutic range and toxicity levels • Baseline investigations (U&Es, TFTs, calcium, ECG) • Ongoing monitoring schedule • 12-hour lithium level timing • Common side effects • Lithium toxicity signs and triggers • Drug interactions (NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors, diuretics) • Pregnancy risks and counselling • OSCE counselling structure This episode is ideal for: Medical students OSCE preparation Psychiatry placements Foundation doctors GP rotations Lithium is powerful — but only safe when monitored correctly. This episode helps you understand both the science and the counselling. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
February 14 · 12 min
Paediatric History Taking Overview | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a structured paediatric history We walk through the basics of a paediatric history, including who the patient has brought with them mum, dad , or grandparent.The episode also highlights the importance of a clear systematic approach using a head to toes overview to cover all basic symptoms. We go through the importances of birth, feeding, growth, development, and vaccine history. This episode is designed to help medical students improve their basics whilst taking a paediatric history. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z...🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_ Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
February 7 · 12 min
Psychiatric History Taking Explained | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured psychiatric history. We walk through core psychiatric symptoms not to miss including screening for depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, schizophrenia and OCD. The episode also highlights the importance of understanding psychiatric terminology, and going through the importance of RISK in psychiatry. This episode is designed to help you sound confident, organised, and clinically safe when faced with pyschiatric history stations. 🎧 Listen & Follow:🎙️ Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/01yz38z...🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...▶️ YouTube → / @oscetalkpod 📸 Instagram → / oscetalk_ 🎵 TikTok → / oscetalk_ Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
January 20 · 2 min
Hypothyroidism Explained | Levothyroxine Counselling for OSCEs & Clinical Exams
In this episode of Osce Talk, we break down hypothyroidism and how to counsel a patient starting levothyroxine, with a clear focus on OSCEs and clinical exams. We cover: What hypothyroidism is and why it occurs Common symptoms and how it presents in exams How to explain levothyroxine in clear, patient-friendly language Dosing, side effects, monitoring, and pregnancy considerations High-yield counselling points examiners expect This episode is ideal for medical students, OSCE preparation, and clinical exam revision. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
S3 · E10
January 5 · 6 min
How to Counsel a Patient on Asthma & Inhaler Technique | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we walk through how to counsel a patient on asthma, using clear, patient-friendly explanations that score marks in OSCEs. We cover: How to explain asthma simply (reversible airway disease) Common triggers and why symptoms fluctuate Holistic management including lifestyle and vaccinations Preventer vs reliever inhalers and when control is poor Step-by-step inhaler technique, including spacers Red flags and when to attend A&E Key OSCE tips and guideline updates (including MART regimens) This episode is ideal for medical students and foundation doctors preparing for OSCE stations involving asthma counselling, inhaler technique, or respiratory education. 🎧 Listen alongside our Asthma History Taking episode for full exam preparation. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropriate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
S3 · E1
Dec 21, 2025 · 15 min
Patient Counselling in OSCEs | Explaining Diagnoses & Medications | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we focus on one of the most important — and often underestimated — OSCE skills: patient counselling and communication. We break down a simple, repeatable structure for counselling patients about new diagnoses and medications, helping you explain conditions clearly, confidently, and without jargon. The episode covers how to assess a patient’s prior knowledge, address concerns, link symptoms to the underlying condition, and check understanding throughout the consultation. You’ll also learn how to stay flexible during patient interactions, adapt your explanations when patients interrupt or ask unexpected questions, and maintain confidence even when the condition is unfamiliar. This episode is essential for OSCE stations involving explaining a diagnosis, starting a medication, or discussing management plans. A clear structure for patient counselling stations How to introduce yourself and set the agenda confidently How to assess a patient’s prior knowledge Techniques for explaining conditions without medical jargon How to address common patient concerns about medications The “Normally, we can probably manage” explanation structure How to link disease mechanisms back to patient symptoms When and how to adapt your explanation mid-consultation How to check understanding and encourage questions How to remain calm and professional in OSCE scenarios Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropiate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
S1 · E18
Dec 17, 2025 · 9 min
Dermatology History Taking | Skin Lesions, Cancer Risk & OSCE Frameworks | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured dermatology history, with a particular focus on skin lesions and suspected skin cancer. We walk through a practical approach using the OPERA framework, discuss key skin cancer risk factors, and explain how to assess lesions safely and systematically using the ABCDE framework. The episode also highlights the importance of understanding dermatological terminology, recognising the mental health impact of skin disease, and asking the right background questions in OSCEs and real clinical settings. This episode is designed to help you sound confident, organised, and clinically safe when faced with dermatology history stations. How to structure a dermatology history using OPERA Key skin cancer risk factors, including skin type and sun exposure Why sunbed use significantly increases melanoma risk How to assess skin lesions using the ABCDE framework The Three S’s for lesion examination (sight, size, shape) Essential dermatology terminology to improve communication The relevance of drug history, family history, and steroid use How skin conditions can impact mental health and daily life Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropiate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
S1 · E17
Dec 17, 2025 · 12 min
How to Take an Eye (Ophthalmology) History | Red Flags & OSCE Tips
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured ophthalmology history for OSCEs and real clinical practice. We cover the key eye symptoms you must ask about, how to use a simple framework to avoid missing red flags, and how to recognise ophthalmological emergencies such as sudden vision loss, flashes, floaters, and diplopia. Using a practical case example, we guide you through differentiating common causes of visual disturbance, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, and retinal pathology — helping you sound confident, systematic, and safe in exams. Whether you’re revising for OSCEs or starting clinical placements, this episode gives you a repeatable structure you can use in any eye history station. A clear framework for ophthalmology history taking How to assess visual disturbance effectively Key red flags that require urgent referral How to localise vision loss (central vs peripheral) Common differential diagnoses in eye presentations When to escalate to eye casualty Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropiate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.
S2 · E1
Dec 16, 2025 · 6 min
Medicine MMI Explained | How Interviews Really Work
Welcome to Osce Talk 👋 In this episode, we break down Medicine MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) interviews and explain how they really work, based on our own experiences getting into medical school and sitting MMIs ourselves. We cover: What an MMI actually is Why MMIs are used instead of traditional interviews Common MMI station types (role play, ethics, communication, prioritisation) What medical schools are really looking for How to approach stations when you’re unsure Practical tips to improve your confidence and structure This series is aimed at students applying to medicine, particularly those preparing for MMIs, but it’s also useful for anyone wanting to improve communication, ethical reasoning, and interview technique. 📌 Future episodes will include: Ethics stations explained Role-play examples Communication stations Real MMI practice scenarios 🔔 Subscribe to Osce Talk for practical, exam-focused and interview-focused medical education.
S1 · E16
Dec 7, 2025 · 15 min
How to Take a Collapse History | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down how to take a structured collapse history, one of the most important and high-stakes presentations in emergency and general medical practice. They guide you through the essential Before–During–After framework, helping you differentiate between causes such as seizures, vasovagal episodes, cardiac arrhythmias, and functional collapses. You’ll learn how to ask the right questions, what contextual clues matter most, and how to safely assess a patient after a collapse — including when driving restrictions and safeguarding concerns are relevant. This episode is packed with practical, OSCE-ready teaching and real-life clinical reasoning. Use the Before–During–After structure to organise your collapse history. Open questions help clarify unclear or unwitnessed events. Past medical history and medications (e.g., antihypertensives, anticonvulsants) may reveal the cause. Social history — alcohol, drugs, stress, sleep — is essential. Consider seizure if there is tongue biting, incontinence, or post-ictal confusion. Consider cardiac causes (arrhythmia, structural disease) if sudden and unprovoked. Vasovagal collapses often have triggers like pain, emotions, or prolonged standing. Always ask if they hit their head or suffered injury. Patient safety is crucial — including driving advice after episodes of unexplained loss of consciousness. Collapse histories are extremely common across emergency, GP, and inpatient care. Disclaimer OSCE Talk is an educational resource designed primarily to help healthcare students prepare for clinical examinations. Episodes on the key, exam-relevant and salient points of each topic and are not intended to provide a complete or exhaustive review of clinical management. Content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for formal teaching, clinical supervision, local policies or current national guidance. While we aim to keep our content accurate and useful, medical guidance changes over time and episodes may contain omissions or necessary simplifications. Always refer to appropiate guidance when making clinical decisions or caring for patients.

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