CSA advice

[Doc]

1. Morning Session has 11 SP's, with one being an experimental non-graded one.
2. After you present your admission slip and photo ID, you will be given arm bands which will serve as your ID tag.
3. Also, you will have to sign an agreement/release stating that the exam is the property of USMLE/ECFMG and that no content of the exam will ever leave the room.
4. You are only allowed to bring your white coats and stethoscopes into the exam room so the rest of your stuff will be placed in a locked shelf.
5. A brief introduction will be given as well as explanations on how to use the equipment provided in the room. Familiarize yourself with this.
6. Remember: English is the only language recognized here so DO NOT converse in your native tongue because they might just kick you out because of that. Better yet—DON’T TALK at all.
7. You will then be escorted to the exam hall, which has the simulated physicians examination room, down to the washbasin, and wipes, on both side and waiting inside are the Standardized Patients.
8. On the door will be posted the triage information including why the patient is there, vital signs and information that you have to look for. This door information has a cover so under no circumstance should you look into it before the time is called.
9. Outside the door is a small station where you will write your history, physical exam, differential diagnosis and diagnostic aids on a 8’ x 11’ piece of paper. You have 10 minutes to write down the findings and 15 minutes to do the history and PE. Also, in the station will be posted a list of abbreviations accepted by the ECFMG. Be sure to familiarize yourself with them.
10. Once the time is called, read the door information quickly and write down the pertinent information on the scratch paper provided you. Be sure to KNOCK before entering the room.
11. Introduce yourself to the patient and acknowledge the patients name.
12. Given the limited amount of time, a lengthy history and PE is impossible so be focused and don’t let the patient sidetrack you.
13. Always wash your hands before and after doing the physical exam.
14. Drape the patients appropriately when doing the physical examination.
15. Assist the patient, especially the elderly, when going up or down the examination table.
16. Take time to explain your findings and plan of management to the patient.
You are not allowed to perform a rectal, breast, and male genital and pelvic examinations. If you think they are warranted you can order them in the patients notes