When preparing for a UK Nursing OSCE, many candidates focus heavily on clinical procedures: the correct sequence of steps, infection prevention, equipment, documentation, observations, medication checks, and safety requirements. However, one of the most important elements of a successful OSCE performance is often overlooked: communication.

You may know exactly what you need to do clinically, but if you cannot communicate clearly and professionally with the patient, your performance may become less effective.

In an OSCE, communication is not simply about speaking English correctly. It is about demonstrating that you can communicate as a safe, compassionate, respectful, and professional nurse.

The examiner is looking for evidence that you can:

• Introduce yourself appropriately.
• Confirm the patient’s identity.
• Explain what you are going to do.
• Obtain consent.
• Maintain dignity and privacy.
• Use appropriate language.
• Listen actively.
• Respond to concerns.
• Show empathy.
• Check the patient’s understanding.
• Give clear health education.
• Recognise when the patient may need additional support.
• Escalate concerns appropriately.
• Close the interaction professionally.

This guide explains what to say to patients during common clinical OSCE stations, how to structure your communication, phrases you can use, common mistakes to avoid, and practical techniques for sounding natural rather than memorised.

1. Why Communication Matters in the Nursing OSCE

A nursing OSCE is designed to assess whether you can demonstrate safe and effective clinical practice in a structured scenario.

Communication is present throughout the station.

For example, imagine you are asked to perform a blood pressure assessment. You might know how to position the patient, select the correct cuff, take the reading, and interpret the result.

But you also need to communicate with the patient:

“Good morning, my name is Sarah, and I am one of the student nurses looking after you today. Could I confirm your full name and date of birth, please?”

You then explain:

“I would like to check your blood pressure today. This will involve placing a cuff around your upper arm and inflating it. You may feel some pressure around your arm, but it should not be painful.”

Then:

“Is that okay with you?”

These statements demonstrate several professional behaviours at the same time:

• Introduction
• Identity verification
• Explanation
• Patient-centred communication
• Preparation
• Consent
• Reassurance

Therefore, communication should not be treated as a separate part of the station.

Communication should happen throughout the entire clinical interaction.

2. The Golden Rule: Explain Before You Do

One of the most useful principles for OSCE communication is:

“Don’t perform a procedure on a patient without explaining what you are doing.”

Instead of silently approaching the patient and beginning the procedure, explain what you are going to do.

For example, rather than immediately taking a pulse:

“I am going to check your pulse now.”

A better approach would be:

“I would like to check your pulse to assess your heart rate and rhythm. I will do this by placing my fingers gently on your wrist. It should not be painful. Is that okay with you?”

This gives the patient information and allows them to participate in the decision.

3. The Ideal Opening for an OSCE Station

Your opening is extremely important because it establishes professionalism from the beginning.

A useful structure is:

1. Greeting

“Good morning.”

2. Introduce yourself

“My name is [Name], and I am one of the student nurses looking after you today.”

3. Confirm patient identity

“Could I confirm your full name and date of birth, please?”

4. Explain the purpose

“Today I would like to [explain the procedure/assessment].”

5. Explain what will happen

“I will explain each step to you before I do it.”

6. Consent

“Is that okay with you?”

7. Check comfort

“Are you comfortable at the moment?”

This simple structure can be adapted to many OSCE stations.

4. How to Introduce Yourself Professionally

A professional introduction should be brief and clear.

Example

“Good morning, Mr Smith. My name is Emma, and I am one of the student nurses caring for you today.”

Avoid unnecessarily long introductions.

You do not need to give the patient your entire background.

Avoid saying:

“Hello, my name is Emma, I am from India, I have been studying nursing for several years and today I am going to do this procedure.”

Keep it professional and relevant.

5. Confirming Patient Identity

Patient identification is a major component of safe nursing practice.

Depending on the station, you may need to use appropriate identifiers.

For example:

“Could I confirm your full name and date of birth, please?”

You should not simply say:

“Are you John?”

An open-ended question is safer because it allows the patient to provide their details.

You can then compare the information with the appropriate documentation or identification system required by the station.

6. Obtaining Consent

Consent should not sound like a formality.

You should explain the procedure sufficiently before asking for consent.

For example:

“I would like to take a blood sample from your arm. I will clean the area, insert a small needle into a vein, collect the required blood samples and then remove the needle. You may feel a small sharp scratch. Is that okay with you?”

Then allow the patient to respond.

You could ask:

“Do you have any questions before we begin?”

Consent is an ongoing process. If the procedure changes significantly or the patient becomes uncomfortable, you should communicate with them again.

7. Use Patient-Friendly Language

One of the most common communication mistakes in OSCEs is using too much medical terminology.

Patients may not understand terms such as:

• Hypertension
• Hypoglycaemia
• Tachycardia
• Dyspnoea
• Intramuscular
• Intravenous
• Peripheral oedema
• Saturation
• Auscultation

Instead, use simpler language where appropriate.

Instead of:

“I am going to assess your respiratory rate.”

Say:

“I am going to check how quickly you are breathing.”

Instead of:

“You are experiencing dyspnoea.”

Say:

“You are experiencing shortness of breath.”

Instead of:

“Your blood glucose is elevated.”

Say:

“Your blood sugar level is higher than the expected range.”

The goal is not to demonstrate how many medical terms you know.

The goal is to make sure the patient understands you.

8. Avoid Sounding Like a Robot

OSCE candidates often memorise scripts.

Memorisation can be useful, but there is a danger.

If you sound like you are reciting a speech, your communication may appear unnatural.

For example:

“Hello. My name is X. I am a student nurse. I am here to perform procedure X. I will now explain procedure X. I will obtain consent. Is that okay?”

This can sound mechanical.

Instead, treat the interaction as a conversation.

Use natural transitions:

“Before we start, I’d like to explain what I’m going to do.”

“How are you feeling at the moment?”

“Does that make sense?”

“Do you have any concerns?”

“Please let me know if you feel uncomfortable at any point.”

This sounds more patient-centred.

9. Show Empathy

Empathy is one of the most important communication skills for nurses.

If a patient tells you:

“I’m really worried about this procedure.”

Do not immediately respond:

“Don’t worry. Everything will be fine.”

You cannot guarantee that everything will be fine.

Instead, acknowledge their feelings.

Better response:

“I can understand that you may feel worried about the procedure. Thank you for telling me. Would you like to tell me what concerns you most?”

Or:

“It sounds like this is making you feel quite anxious. I’ll explain everything before we begin, and you can ask me any questions.”

This demonstrates empathy without making unrealistic promises.

10. Never Dismiss a Patient’s Concerns

Avoid phrases such as:

• “Don’t worry.”
• “It’s nothing.”
• “You will be fine.”
• “There is nothing to worry about.”
• “Everyone feels like that.”
• “It’s just a small problem.”

Even when your intention is to reassure the patient, these statements may minimize their feelings.

Instead:

“I understand why that may be concerning for you.”

“Thank you for sharing that with me.”

“Let me explain what we can do.”

“I will make sure your concern is communicated to the appropriate member of the healthcare team.”

11. Communicating During Painful Procedures

If a procedure may cause discomfort, explain this honestly.

For example:

“You may feel a small scratch when the needle goes in.”

Avoid saying:

“You won’t feel anything.”

You cannot guarantee that.

A better approach is:

“You may feel a brief sharp sensation. If you experience significant pain or discomfort, please let me know.”

During the procedure:

“You’re doing well.”

“We’re nearly finished.”

“Please let me know if you feel uncomfortable.”

Afterwards:

“The procedure is now complete. How are you feeling?”

12. Communicating With an Anxious Patient

Anxiety can affect communication and cooperation.

Start by acknowledging the emotion.

“I can see that you seem a little anxious.”

Then encourage the patient to explain.

“Would you like to tell me what is worrying you?”

Listen without interrupting.

Then respond appropriately.

“Thank you for explaining that. I can understand why you might feel concerned.”

Give clear information:

“I’ll explain each step before we proceed, and you can ask questions at any time.”

This approach is much better than repeatedly saying:

“Don’t worry.”

13. Active Listening

Communication is not just speaking.

A good nurse listens.

During an OSCE, demonstrate active listening by:

• Maintaining appropriate eye contact.
• Allowing the patient to finish speaking.
• Not interrupting unnecessarily.
• Using appropriate facial expressions.
• Nodding when appropriate.
• Asking relevant follow-up questions.
• Summarising what the patient has told you.

For example:

“So, if I understand correctly, you’ve been feeling dizzy since yesterday, and it becomes worse when you stand up. Is that correct?”

This demonstrates that you have listened and understood.

14. Open-Ended Questions

Open-ended questions encourage patients to provide more information.

Examples include:

“Can you tell me more about what happened?”

“How have you been feeling today?”

“What concerns you most about your treatment?”

“Can you describe the pain for me?”

“How has this affected you?”

These are usually more useful than questions that can only be answered with “yes” or “no.”

15. Closed Questions

Closed questions are still useful when you need specific information.

For example:

“Is the pain on the left side?”

“Have you taken any medication today?”

“Do you have any allergies?”

The skill is knowing when to use each type.

A good interaction often starts with an open question and then uses focused questions.

16. Pain Assessment Communication

Pain assessment is a common area where communication matters.

You could begin:

“I’d like to ask you a few questions about your pain so that I can understand what you’re experiencing.”

Then ask:

“Where exactly is the pain?”

“When did it start?”

“What does the pain feel like?”

“Does anything make it better or worse?”

“Does the pain move anywhere else?”

“On a scale from zero to ten, where zero means no pain and ten means the worst pain you can imagine, how would you rate it?”

After receiving the answer:

“Thank you. I’ll document this information and report any concerns appropriately.”

17. Communicating About Medication

Medication-related stations require particularly careful communication.

Before administering medication, explain:

“I am going to give you your prescribed medication. I’ll first check your identity and the medication details to make sure it is safe and appropriate for you.”

Depending on the medication and station, explain:

• Name of medication
• Purpose
• Route
• Relevant instructions
• Possible common effects where appropriate
• What the patient should report

For example:

“This medication has been prescribed to help control your blood pressure.”

Then:

“Do you have any questions about the medication?”

Never provide information outside your competence or make unsupported claims.

18. Explaining Side Effects

When discussing medication, distinguish between expected effects and symptoms that require urgent attention.

For example:

“Some people may experience mild dizziness when taking this medication. If you experience severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, swelling, or any other concerning symptoms, please seek medical help immediately.”

However, the exact information should always be based on the medication and scenario provided in the station.

Avoid giving generic information that does not relate to the prescribed medication.

19. Communicating During Wound Care

When performing wound care, explain what you are doing.

For example:

“I am going to assess your wound and then clean it using the appropriate technique.”

Before touching the wound:

“I will now examine the area. Please let me know if you experience any pain.”

During the procedure:

“I’m going to clean the wound now. You may feel some coolness or mild discomfort.”

Afterwards:

“The wound care is now complete. How are you feeling?”

Then provide appropriate advice based on the station.

20. Communicating During Vital Signs Stations

Vital signs may appear straightforward, but communication should continue throughout.

Blood pressure

“I am going to check your blood pressure. I’ll place a cuff around your upper arm. It will tighten for a short time, which may feel slightly uncomfortable.”

Temperature

“I’m going to check your temperature. This should only take a moment.”

Oxygen saturation

“I’m going to place this small sensor on your finger to check the oxygen level in your blood.”

Respiratory rate

“I’m going to observe your breathing for a short period.”

Always maintain patient dignity and comfort.

21. Communicating During Mobility or Transfer Stations

Mobility stations require particularly clear communication because patient safety is involved.

Before beginning:

“I’d like to help you move from the bed to the chair.”

Explain the plan:

“I’ll explain each step before we move.”

Check:

“Are you feeling dizzy or light-headed at the moment?”

During movement:

“When you’re ready, we’ll stand together.”

“Please take your time.”

“Are you comfortable?”

“Let me know immediately if you feel dizzy or unsteady.”

Avoid rushing the patient.

22. Communicating With a Patient at Risk of Falling

A patient may say:

“I can walk by myself.”

If you have identified a safety risk, do not simply agree.

Respond respectfully:

“I understand that you’d like to walk independently. However, I’m concerned that you may be at risk of falling at the moment. I’d like to make sure we do this safely.”

Then explain:

“I’ll stay with you while you stand and walk.”

This maintains respect while prioritising safety.

23. Communicating With a Patient Who Refuses Care

Patients have the right to make informed decisions about their care, subject to the relevant legal and clinical circumstances.

If a patient says:

“I don’t want this procedure.”

Do not become argumentative.

Say:

“I understand. Could you tell me what concerns you about the procedure?”

Listen.

Then provide appropriate information:

“I’d like to make sure you have enough information to make an informed decision.”

If the patient continues to refuse:

“I respect your decision. I will make sure your decision and concerns are communicated to the appropriate healthcare professional.”

In an OSCE, follow the specific instructions and escalation requirements of the station.

24. Handling an Angry Patient

An angry patient does not necessarily mean an aggressive patient.

Remain calm.

Do not respond defensively.

For example:

“I can see that you’re very frustrated.”

Then:

“I’d like to understand what has happened so I can see how I can help.”

Allow the patient to speak.

Avoid:

“You need to calm down.”

Instead:

“I understand that this situation is frustrating for you.”

If there is a genuine safety concern, follow the appropriate escalation procedure.

25. Handling a Patient Who Is Crying

If a patient becomes emotional, do not immediately continue with the procedure.

Pause where clinically appropriate.

Say:

“I can see that you’re upset. Would you like to take a moment?”

Then:

“Would you like to tell me what is upsetting you?”

Sometimes simply allowing the patient to speak is the most therapeutic response.

26. Discussing Sensitive Information

Nurses frequently need to discuss sensitive subjects.

These may include:

• Continence
• Sexual health
• Mental health
• Alcohol
• Substance use
• Domestic safety
• Personal hygiene
• Body image
• Weight
• Bowel and bladder function

Use respectful, non-judgmental language.

For example:

“I need to ask you a few personal questions because they may be relevant to your care. Is it okay for us to discuss this now?”

Then:

“Everything you tell me will be treated confidentially within the limits of professional and legal requirements.”

Avoid showing surprise or judgement.

27. Discussing Lifestyle Factors Without Judgement

Instead of saying:

“You need to stop eating unhealthy food.”

Say:

“Can you tell me a little about your usual diet?”

Then:

“Would you be interested in discussing some changes that may support your health?”

Similarly, instead of:

“You shouldn’t smoke.”

You could say:

“Would you be interested in discussing support available to help you reduce or stop smoking?”

Patient-centred communication is collaborative rather than authoritarian.

28. Health Education: Use the Teach-Back Method

One of the best ways to check understanding is teach-back.

After explaining something, ask:

“Just so I can make sure I’ve explained it clearly, could you tell me how you will take the medication when you get home?”

This is better than simply asking:

“Do you understand?”

Why?

Because patients may say “yes” even when they are uncertain.

Teach-back allows you to identify misunderstandings.

You can also say:

“Could you explain to me what you would do if this symptom occurs?”

29. Avoid Asking Only “Do You Understand?”

“Do you understand?” can sometimes make patients feel uncomfortable admitting that they do not understand.

Instead use:

“What questions do you have?”

“Could you tell me in your own words what we’ve discussed?”

“Is there anything you’d like me to explain again?”

These questions create a more open environment.

30. Giving Discharge Advice

When concluding a station involving education or discharge planning, make sure your communication is structured.

You can say:

“Before you leave, I’d like to go through a few important points with you.”

Then explain the relevant information.

For example:

“Please take your medication exactly as prescribed.”

“If you develop any symptoms that have been explained as requiring urgent attention, seek appropriate medical help.”

“If you have any concerns, contact the appropriate healthcare service.”

Then check understanding:

“Can I check that everything we’ve discussed is clear?”

31. Safety-Netting

Safety-netting is an important communication skill.

The patient should understand:

• What symptoms to watch for.
• When to seek help.
• Who to contact.
• What to do if symptoms worsen.

For example:

“If your symptoms become significantly worse, if you develop severe difficulty breathing, chest pain, or another serious symptom described in your care plan, you should seek urgent medical attention.”

The exact advice should always reflect the clinical scenario.

32. Communicating When You Don’t Know the Answer

Never invent an answer.

If a patient asks something you cannot safely answer, say:

“That’s an important question. I don’t want to give you incorrect information, so I’ll check with the appropriate healthcare professional and make sure you receive the correct advice.”

This is much safer than guessing.

A nurse does not need to know everything immediately.

A safe nurse knows when to seek help.

33. Escalating a Clinical Concern

If you identify an abnormal finding, do not simply tell the patient:

“Your result is abnormal.”

Depending on the scenario, communicate calmly:

“I’ve noticed a result that I need to discuss with the appropriate member of the healthcare team.”

If the patient asks:

“Is something seriously wrong?”

You should not speculate.

Say:

“I understand that you’re concerned. I don’t want to give you information that may be inaccurate. I will escalate this appropriately and make sure your concern is reviewed.”

Follow the station’s escalation instructions.

34. Communication With Relatives or Carers

When a relative asks for confidential information, be careful.

For example:

“Can you tell me what’s wrong with my mother?”

You should consider confidentiality and the patient’s consent.

A professional response could be:

“I understand that you’re concerned about her. I’ll need to check what information I am able to share and whether she has given consent for us to discuss her care with you.”

Do not disclose confidential patient information simply because someone says they are a relative.

35. Cultural Sensitivity

Patients come from diverse backgrounds.

Avoid making assumptions about:

• Religion
• Culture
• Family roles
• Gender preferences
• Dietary practices
• Communication preferences
• Personal beliefs

Instead ask respectfully when relevant.

For example:

“Is there anything important about your cultural or personal preferences that you would like us to consider while providing your care?”

If a patient requests a specific gender of healthcare professional for an intimate procedure, respond respectfully and follow the clinical situation and available resources.

36. Using an Interpreter

If a patient has difficulty understanding English, do not automatically rely on a family member for important clinical interpretation.

Where appropriate, use the approved interpreting service according to the clinical setting.

You can say:

“I want to make sure that we communicate clearly and that you understand all the information about your care. I will arrange an appropriate interpreter.”

Speak directly to the patient rather than speaking to the interpreter as though the patient is not present.

37. Communicating With Patients With Hearing Difficulties

Adapt your communication.

You may say:

“How would you prefer me to communicate with you?”

Then:

• Face the patient.
• Speak clearly.
• Avoid shouting.
• Reduce background noise where possible.
• Give the patient adequate time.
• Use written information if appropriate.

Do not assume that speaking louder automatically improves communication.

38. Communicating With Patients With Visual Impairment

Introduce yourself clearly.

For example:

“Good morning, my name is Emma, and I am one of the nurses looking after you.”

Explain what you are doing before touching the patient.

“I’m going to place my hand gently on your arm to guide you.”

Avoid suddenly touching the patient without warning.

39. Communicating With Patients With Cognitive Difficulties

Use simple, clear sentences.

Avoid giving too much information at once.

For example:

“First, I’m going to check your blood pressure.”

Pause.

“Then I’ll explain the result.”

Check understanding regularly.

“Is that clear so far?”

Adapt communication according to the individual’s needs and the clinical context.

40. Non-Verbal Communication

Your words are only part of your communication.

Examiners may also observe:

• Eye contact
• Facial expression
• Posture
• Tone of voice
• Pace of speech
• Personal space
• Hand gestures
• Listening behaviour

A candidate who speaks politely but appears rushed, distracted, or irritated may give a poor impression.

Try to maintain:

Calm + Professional + Respectful + Patient-centred

41. Tone of Voice

Your tone should match the situation.

When explaining a procedure:

Calm and informative.

When responding to anxiety:

Reassuring and empathetic.

When discussing serious information:

Calm and professional.

When providing health education:

Clear and encouraging.

Avoid sounding:

• Irritated
• Rushed
• Overconfident
• Dismissive
• Patronising

42. The “Narrate What You Are Doing” Technique

One very useful OSCE technique is to communicate while performing the procedure.

For example:

“I’m going to clean my hands first.”

“I’m now checking the equipment.”

“I’m going to place the cuff around your upper arm.”

“You may feel the cuff tightening.”

“The measurement is now complete.”

This helps the patient understand what is happening and demonstrates your awareness to the examiner.

However, do not narrate every tiny movement mechanically.

Your communication should remain natural.

43. What to Say When the Patient Asks, “Will It Hurt?”

Avoid absolute promises.

Don’t say:

“No, it won’t hurt.”

Instead:

“You may feel some brief discomfort, depending on the procedure. I’ll explain each step, and please let me know if you’re uncomfortable.”

This is honest and reassuring.

44. What to Say When the Patient Says, “I’m Scared”

A strong response is:

“I understand that you are feeling scared. Thank you for telling me. Would you like to tell me what you’re most worried about?”

Then listen.

You can follow with:

“I’ll explain what we’re going to do, and you can ask me any questions before we continue.”

This combines empathy, listening and patient education.

45. What to Say When the Patient Says, “I Don’t Understand”

Never blame the patient.

Don’t say:

“I already explained that.”

Instead:

“Of course. Let me explain it again in a different way.”

Then simplify the explanation.

Finish with:

“Could you tell me in your own words what we’ve discussed, just so I can make sure I’ve explained it clearly?”

46. What to Say When the Patient Refuses

A useful sequence is:

Acknowledge

“I understand that you don’t want to proceed.”

Explore

“Could you tell me what concerns you have?”

Explain

“I’d like to make sure you have all the information you need.”

Respect

“I respect your decision.”

Escalate/document as appropriate

“I’ll make sure your decision and concerns are communicated appropriately.”

Always follow the specific clinical scenario and applicable professional guidance.

47. How to End an OSCE Station

Do not simply walk away after completing the procedure.

A professional closing might include:

“The procedure is now complete.”

“Are you comfortable?”

“Do you have any questions or concerns?”

“Is there anything else I can help you with?”

“Thank you for your time.”

Then:

“I will document the procedure and communicate any relevant findings to the appropriate member of the healthcare team.”

Finally, ensure the patient is safe and comfortable before leaving.

48. A Simple Communication Framework for Almost Any Station

You can remember the following structure:

G-E-C-E-L-C

G — Greet

“Good morning.”

E — Explain who you are

“My name is… and I am a student nurse.”

C — Confirm identity

“Could I confirm your full name and date of birth?”

E — Explain the procedure

“I’d like to…”

L — Listen and respond

“How are you feeling?”

“Do you have any concerns?”

C — Close

“Are you comfortable? Do you have any questions?”

This provides a simple communication framework without forcing you to memorise an entire script.

49. The AIDET Approach

Another useful communication structure is AIDET:

A — Acknowledge

“Good morning, Mr Smith.”

I — Introduce

“My name is Emma, and I’m one of the student nurses.”

D — Duration

Where relevant:

“This should take approximately five minutes.”

E — Explanation

“I’ll explain each step before we begin.”

T — Thank You

“Thank you for your time.”

You can adapt this framework to the specific OSCE scenario.

50. Phrases Worth Practising Before Your OSCE

Instead of memorising entire scripts, practise flexible phrases.

Introduction

“Good morning. My name is…”

Identity

“Could I confirm your full name and date of birth?”

Explanation

“I’d like to explain what I’m going to do.”

Consent

“Is that okay with you?”

Comfort

“Are you comfortable?”

Pain

“Please let me know if you experience any pain or discomfort.”

Empathy

“I can understand why you might be concerned.”

Exploration

“Can you tell me more about that?”

Clarification

“Could you explain what you mean by that?”

Understanding

“Does that make sense?”

Teach-back

“Could you explain that back to me in your own words?”

Reassurance

“I’ll explain each step and answer any questions you may have.”

Uncertainty

“I don’t want to give you incorrect information, so I’ll check with the appropriate healthcare professional.”

Closing

“Do you have any questions or concerns before we finish?”

51. Common Communication Mistakes in OSCEs

Mistake 1: Starting Without Introducing Yourself

Walking into the station and immediately touching equipment can appear unprofessional.

Better:

Introduce yourself and explain the purpose first.

Mistake 2: Forgetting Consent

Even if the procedure seems simple, explain what you are doing and obtain appropriate consent.

Mistake 3: Using Excessive Medical Terminology

The patient should understand what you are saying.

Mistake 4: Talking Too Fast

Nervous candidates often speak quickly.

Slow down.

Pause between important pieces of information.

Mistake 5: Interrupting the Patient

Allow the patient to finish their response unless there is an urgent safety reason to intervene.

Mistake 6: Saying “Don’t Worry”

This can unintentionally dismiss the patient’s concerns.

Mistake 7: Giving False Reassurance

Avoid:

“Everything will definitely be fine.”

Instead:

“I’ll make sure your concern is assessed appropriately.”

Mistake 8: Ignoring Non-Verbal Cues

If a patient looks distressed, don’t continue mechanically.

Acknowledge them.

“You seem uncomfortable. Are you okay?”

Mistake 9: Leaving Without a Proper Conclusion

Always check comfort, answer questions where appropriate, and close professionally.

52. Communication During High-Pressure Stations

Some OSCE stations can make candidates nervous because there are many clinical steps to remember.

The key is not to stop communicating because you are concentrating.

Use short, professional statements.

For example:

“I’m just going to prepare the equipment.”

“I’ll explain the next step before we continue.”

“Please let me know if you’re uncomfortable.”

“Thank you.”

You do not need long conversations.

Effective communication can be brief.

53. How to Practise Communication at Home

One of the best ways to improve is to practise aloud.

Choose a clinical station and practise:

1. Introduction.
2. Identity check.
3. Explanation.
4. Consent.
5. Procedure communication.
6. Patient education.
7. Closing.

Record yourself if possible.

Then evaluate:

• Did I speak too quickly?
• Did I sound natural?
• Did I explain the procedure clearly?
• Did I use too much medical terminology?
• Did I show empathy?
• Did I ask the patient if they had questions?
• Did I check my understanding?
• Did I close professionally?

54. Practise With Different Patient Personalities

Do not practise only with a cooperative patient.

Ask your practice partner to act as:

• An anxious patient.
• An angry patient.
• A confused patient.
• A patient who refuses.
• A patient who asks difficult questions.
• A patient who does not understand English well.
• A patient who is in pain.
• A patient who keeps interrupting.
• A patient who is embarrassed.

This prepares you for unexpected communication challenges.

55. Communication Is More Than Memorising Sentences

The goal of OSCE preparation should not be:

“I need to memorise 100 sentences.”

Instead, understand the purpose behind each communication step.

For example:

Introduction

Purpose: Establish professional identity.

Identity check

Purpose: Patient safety.

Explanation

Purpose: Help the patient understand what will happen.

Consent

Purpose: Respect patient autonomy.

Empathy

Purpose: Respond to emotional needs.

Teach-back

Purpose: Confirm understanding.

Closing

Purpose: Ensure safety, comfort and continuity of care.

When you understand the purpose, you can communicate naturally even if the scenario changes.

56. The Ideal OSCE Communication Mindset

Before entering the station, think:

“I am not performing a procedure on a mannequin. I am caring for a patient.”

Even though the OSCE is an assessment, behave as though the patient is a real person.

Ask yourself:

• Would the patient understand what I am saying?
• Would they feel respected?
• Have I explained what I am doing?
• Have I obtained appropriate consent?
• Have I listened to their concerns?
• Have I maintained dignity?
• Have I checked their comfort?
• Have I provided appropriate information?
• Have I escalated concerns when necessary?

This mindset can transform your performance.

Quick OSCE Communication Checklist

Before finishing any station, mentally check:

• Did I greet the patient?
• Did I introduce myself?
• Did I confirm the patient’s identity?
• Did I explain the purpose of the interaction?
• Did I explain the procedure?
• Did I obtain appropriate consent?
• Did I maintain privacy and dignity?
• Did I use patient-friendly language?
• Did I demonstrate empathy?
• Did I listen to the patient?
• Did I respond to concerns?
• Did I explain what I was doing during the procedure?
• Did I check the patient’s comfort?
• Did I check understanding where appropriate?
• Did I provide relevant education?
• Did I give appropriate safety-netting?
• Did I escalate abnormal findings appropriately?
• Did I avoid making promises or giving unsupported information?
• Did I ask whether the patient had questions?
• Did I leave the patient safe and comfortable?
• Did I close the interaction professionally?