What is the OSCE?

For nurses and midwives educated in countries outside the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), UK requires them to take a practical exam called the objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) to demonstrate their ability to apply theoretical nursing knowledge in real-world clinical surroundings.

What does the OSCE nurse training involve?

The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) consists of six clinical stations with simulated patients. The candidate’s assessment, planning, delivery, and evaluation of care will be tested across four stations. The latter two stations are for evaluating clinical competence. Possible areas of testing in a nursing context include, but are not limited to:

• Vital Signs
• Drug Dosage Calculation
• Intramuscular/Subcutaneous Injections
• Essentials for Maintaining Life
• Sharps Disposal Procedures
• Medication Administration
• Peak Expiratory Flow Rate
• Wound care
• Urinary Catheterisation
• Hand Hygiene

How will taking OSCE help you?

The objective of the OSCE is to determine whether or not you have the skills and knowledge necessary to practice nursing in a clinical setting in the United Kingdom safely and effectively.

What should you know?

The questions in the OSCE will relate to current evidence-based practice in the United Kingdom. In the OSCE, you’ll be using the same kinds of gear that are standard in the UK.

In what ways can you best ready yourself for your OSCE?

Several study guides, including the following, have been published by the authorized testing facilities to assist you in getting ready for the exam:

• A Candidate Information Booklet
• Mock OSCE Scenario
• OSCE Top Tips

Essential NMC reading

The Code– this presents the professional standards that all professionals on our register must uphold to be registered to practice.

Standards of proficiency

• Standards of proficiency for registered nurses
• Standards for competence for registered midwives

Test blueprints

• Adult (general) nursing
• Children’s nursing
• Learning disabilities nursing
• Mental health nursing
• Midwifery

What should you expect on test day?

Dress Code

Given that the OSCE is a simulation of a clinical setting, you should dress appropriately.

Check Yourself

If the testing center needs to confirm your identity, you must bring a passport. You must use the same passport that was submitted with your initial application.

Do the Test

You’ll be provided an examination briefing before you start your OSCE.

Each station will have an overview containing pertinent information regarding the station. You’ll be able to see precisely what is expected of you in each station. Similarly, you will have access to any appropriate documentation. The duration of each station ranges from 10 to 17 minutes, and the personnel will be on hand to assist you in making the transitions.

How long until you get your OSCE scores?

Within five business days, you’ll get an email with the findings.

If you do well on the OSCE, you will be given instructions on obtaining your NMC PIN Number through email.

You must complete the OSCE to receive detailed feedback about the specific stations and elements you fell short of. Since you only need to retake the stations you failed, this information will help you get ready for your final exam attempt.

How many times are you allowed to take the OSCE?

Three attempts at the OSCE are allowed for the NMC application process. At least ten days should pass between sessions. If you pass the OSCE on your third try, your application will be open, and you’ll have to start a new one. There is a minimum waiting period of six months before retaking the OSCE.

Words of the wisdom

Looking for the best osce trainer in UK? If so, you came to the right place. We at BGM Consultancy UK Ltd offer OSCE training to the qualified nurses working in our institutions. The OSCE is thought to examine clinical competence, therefore it’s important that evaluation techniques are applied correctly, such as when assessing nurses’ critical thinking, judgement, and application of information. The OSCE is a crucial test for nurses, and you must perform well on it. We ensure that your preparation is enough and that you are prepared to take the test.