Core Surgical Sciences for the Intercollegiate MRCS - Communication Skills Module

This one-day course is targeted at trainees attempting the last sitting of the Clinical Part III (Part B) communication skills component of the Intercollegiate MRCS examination. It is also appropriate for those trainees sitting the OSCE although it will not cover the written component of the communications station or the staff scenario, as these can be practised in the work setting.

This course is one of the modules in the Core Surgical Sciences programme for the Intercollegiate MRCS, the regionally delivered Intercollegiate MRCS preparatory course. The other modules in the programme include anatomy, physiology and pathology.   

Convenor

• Anatomy Development Tutor – Professor Susan Standring

Ms Judi Laister
Communication Skills Lecturer

Level

CT 1-2

Content

This one-day course enables participants to develop a sound understanding of the newly enhanced clinical consultation skills component of the exam. The morning covers the theory through doing practical exercises underlying the skills needed in good communication and the afternoon is handed over to practice scenarios. There is an opportunity for each participant to engage in a role play scenario. Around 5-6 patient-centred clinical scenarios are employed to reflect the situations experienced in day-to-day practice. The course aims to help you not only in the exam but also with your day-to-day practice.

 Format

• Theory and practical exercises using interactive consultations skills
• Simulated relative waiting room/patient scenarios

What you get

A DVD on MRCS Clinical Communications Skills by Judi Laister is handed to participants on the day of the module. This DVD demonstrates two typical scenarios with patients which you may experience whilst on shift with examples of how to make the most of the short consultation period and "how not to" handle these situations, the DVD also has notes. This complements what participants learn on the day.