In our third episode we do our best to explain the confusing marking scheme. We highlight how a bit of an understanding of what is necessary to achieve a 'satisfactory' score can assist your preparation and maximise the points you earn yourself on the day. 

The 7 different examinable skills and what indicates a 'satisfactory' (full points) and 'unsatisfactory' (fail/zero points) are:

1. Clinical communication skills

Satisfactory = History is relevant/ Fluent/ Focused

Unsatisfactory = Omits crucial areas/ Unpractised/ Unprofessional

2. Managing relationships with patients

Satisfactory = Listens to patient's concerns/ Empathetic

Unsatisfactory = Dismisses patient's concern's/ Not empathetic

3. Physical examination

Satisfactory = Accurate/ appropriate/ practised/ professional

Unsatisfactory = Poor technique/ Omits important tests/ Hesitant / Lacks Confidence

4. Identifying physical signs

Satisfactory = Identifies correct physical signs

Unsatisfactory= Misses important clinical signs / Reports signs that are not present

5. Differential diagnosis

Satisfactory = Presents a sensible and comprehensive differential diagnosis

Unsatisfactory = Inappropriate, incomplete differential diagnosis

6. Clinical judgement

Satisfactory = Evidence of reflective problem solving / Suggests appropriate investigations and management

Unsatisfactory = Poor evidence of problem solving / Selects unsuitable investigations and treatments

7. Maintaining patient safety and quality of care

Satisfactory = Treats patient respectfully and sensitively, and ensures comfort, safety, and dignity

Unsatisfactory = Jeopardises patient safety / Causes physical or emotional pain to the patient

We feel this episode is best accompanied by reading through the points allocation table and have having a look at the examiners' marking card. Available in the link below (direct from RCPI website) - scroll to pages 5-9. 

https://rcpi-live-cdn.s3.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/MRCPI-Part-II-GM-Clinical-Examination-Candidate-Information-COVID-Updated-June-2021.pdf

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