Practical Exam Cheat Sheet

General guidelines you can use to approach each practical station

1.    Introduce yourself and always gain consent

(Ensure you are aware of the differences between consent and informed consent)

  • Introduce yourself: “Hi my name is……, I am an interim physiotherapist”

  • Explain the purpose and objective of your interaction

  • Ask if the patient has any questions

  • Ask if they are in any current pain or discomfort

  • Ask “Do I have your consent to proceed?”

2.    Check the brakes on the bed/plinth/chair before you begin any treatment

3.    Always check in with your patient re pain/discomfort; symptoms 

4.    Watch your body mechanics

5.    Provide draping as required (depends on the station)

6.    Ensure appropriate footwear (e.g. if patient is only wearing socks)

7.    Always look for equipment that is provided in the room

  • You may have NO equipment in the station (be prepared to teach exercises with no equipment)

  • Use a safety belt if provided in the station (depends on the station)

  • If using a mobility aid (e.g. cane) please check for wear and tear prior to use to ensure safety

  • If you are required to mobilise a patient have a chair close by so the patient can rest if needed

8.    Always verbalise what you are doing!

  • The examiner may not watch your every move so it’s important to state out loud what you are doing throughout the station

9.     Have a clear flow to your station

  • Introduction (ALWAYS including consent)

  • Complete the objective of the station (i.e. answer the question!)

  • Conclusion (wrap up prior to the end of the station)

10.  Smile and have fun with it!

If you would like to be more prepared going into your clinical PCE, be sure to check out our new online course! You can get a free preview of the course here!

 
 
Colin Wong