OSCE Talk
OSCE Talk is a podcast designed to help medical students feel more confident in clinical exams. Hosted by UK resident doctors, each episode focuses on one condition or station, breaking down what to ask, what to look for, and what matters in your OSCE. Fast, practical, and exam-focused.
Episodes
Smoking Cessation: The 5 A’s Approach
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkSmoking cessation stations are less about lecturing someone to stop and more about understanding why they smoke, how ready they are to quit, and what support might actually help.In this episode, we work through the 5 A’s approach:• Ask – explore smoking habits, triggers and previous quit attempts• Advise – explain clear
Seizure/Status Epilepticus: A-E Assessment & Management | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkSeizure and status epilepticus is common, especially in medical exams and in hospital inpatients.This episode looks at assessment and treatment of status epilepticus.• Early simple measures such as the recovery position, airway adjuncts, oxygen.• Importance of timing the seizure and being aware that treatment will b
Alcohol Use History, CAGE/AUDIT Questions | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkThis episode explores how to take an alcohol use history!This includes Who,what,why,when,where questions.CAGE and AUDIT Questions to screen for addicition and abnormal drinking behaviours.Symptoms of addiction and dependence including psychological and physical symptoms.How to medically manage these patients and offeri
Difficult Communication with Patients & Staff | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkDifficult communication stations can feel unpredictable, but having a simple framework can help you stay calm and structured.In this episode, we work through the LEAPS approach:• Listen – let them explain what has happened from their point of view• Empathise – acknowledge how the situation has affected them• Apologise –
Explaining Type 1 Diabetes in an OSCE
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkType 1 diabetes counselling can cover a lot, so having a clear structure makes the station much easier.In this episode, we talk through how to explain type 1 diabetes clearly and safely to a patient, including:• What type 1 diabetes is and why insulin is needed• Common symptoms at diagnosis• Insulin treatment and blood
Acute Coronary Syndrome: A–E Assessment | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkChest pain is one of those presentations where having a clear structure really matters.In this episode, we work through how to assess and initially manage a patient with suspected acute coronary syndrome (ACS) using an A–E approach — including: Recognising pulmonary oedema and when oxygen is neededECG changes, troponins
Arterial Blood Gas Interpretation! OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkToday we review arterial blood gas analysis.We take it step by step looking at CO2/O2, pH, bicarbonate and acid base balance overall. We look at the causes of respiratory and metabolic acidosis/alkalosis and how these patients can present.This can feel like a complex topic so we go through some worked examples to give s
Confusion, Delirium & Dementia History Taking | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkPlease subscribe on Spotify for more premium content in the future, £1.99 will help us produce more of these videos!Today we discuss history taking and investigation of confusion, including acute confusion, alongside gradual loss of memory and function at home.We consider differentials of delirium, dementia, and other o
Vaccinations, Misinformation, and Paediatric Counselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkPeter and Matthew discuss vaccinations in this episode, specifically a clear patient focussed approach to explaining what these are, how they work, and what protection they offer, including concepts of herd immunity and common side effects to vaccines.We cover the issues in the media and vaccine hesitancy, alongside fal
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Explained! | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkThis episode gives an overview of Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT. Its replacement of progesterone/oestrogen levels which fall during the menopause. What symptoms it can help to manage.We give practical advice on options from combined, continous, cyclical, tablet and patch options, to help best counsel patients on wh
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Screening & PSA Testing | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkThis episode Peter & Matthew look at Prostate Cancer, specifically focusing on risk factors, diagnosis, and utility of the PSA blood test.Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is a hot topic in the media, however it is not guaranteed to be raised in prostate cancer, and many other conditions and factors can impact on the
Meningitis Overview | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkThis episode we focus on meningitis in both adult and paediatric populations, we look at the microbiology, common ways this presents, red flag features, important diagnostic tests and interpretation of these.Antibiotic treatment focussed on coverage of listeria and the consideration of steriods in patients.We finish wit
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Explained | Causes, Symptoms, Staging & Management (OSCE Guide)
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in a clear, structured, and clinically relevant way.We cover what CKD actually is, how to recognise it, and—most importantly—how to approach it safely as a medical student or junior doctor.We start with the definition of CKD and why it matters, bef
Hyperkalaemia Emergency Management | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkThis episode focusses on hyperkalaemia and its emergency management.We work through the common causes of hyperkalaemia including renal disease, medications, DKA, burns and rhabdomyolysis. Alongside this we review common ECG changes of peaked T Waves, flattened P waves, and broad QRS segments.We look at the need for calc
Ectopic Pregnancy Overview, History, and Counselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode we focus on the pathophysiology of ectopic pregnancy, alongside risk factors, and clinical presentation. We discuss what investigations are required, how to manage ectopic pregnancies that are stable vs emergency management and the need to get senior obstetrics/gynaecology input early. Peter talks throug
Schizophrenia OSCE: First Rank Symptoms Explained (Psychiatry History Guide)
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we cover schizophrenia and Schneider’s First Rank Symptoms, one of the most important concepts for psychiatry OSCEs and medical exams.Schizophrenia rarely begins suddenly. Many patients experience a prodromal phase first, where family members may notice social withdrawal, reduced motivation
Lithium Counselling Made Clear! OSCE Structure, Monitoring & Toxicity Explained
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode, we break down lithium — how it works, when it’s used, how to monitor it safely, and how to counsel a patient in an OSCE station.Lithium is one of the most effective long-term treatments for bipolar disorder and significantly reduces suicide risk — but it requires careful monitoring and patient education
Paediatric History Taking Overview | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a structured paediatric history We walk through the basics of a paediatric history, including who the patient has brought with them mum, dad , or grandparent.The episode also highlights the importance of a clear systematic approach using a head to toes overview to
Psychiatric History Taking Explained | OSCE Talk 🎙️
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured psychiatric history.We walk through core psychiatric symptoms not to miss including screening for depression, anxiety, mania, psychosis, schizophrenia and OCD.The episode also highlights the importance of understanding psychiatric terminology, a
Hypothyroidism Explained | Levothyroxine Counselling for OSCEs & Clinical Exams
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of Osce Talk, we break down hypothyroidism and how to counsel a patient starting levothyroxine, with a clear focus on OSCEs and clinical exams.We cover:What hypothyroidism is and why it occursCommon symptoms and how it presents in examsHow to explain levothyroxine in clear, patient-friendly languageDosin
How to Counsel a Patient on Asthma & Inhaler Technique | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we walk through how to counsel a patient on asthma, using clear, patient-friendly explanations that score marks in OSCEs.We cover:How to explain asthma simply (reversible airway disease)Common triggers and why symptoms fluctuateHolistic management including lifestyle and vaccinationsPrevent
Patient Counselling in OSCEs | Explaining Diagnoses & Medications | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we focus on one of the most important — and often underestimated — OSCE skills: patient counselling and communication.We break down a simple, repeatable structure for counselling patients about new diagnoses and medications, helping you explain conditions clearly, confidently, and without j
Dermatology History Taking | Skin Lesions, Cancer Risk & OSCE Frameworks | OSCE Talk
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured dermatology history, with a particular focus on skin lesions and suspected skin cancer.We walk through a practical approach using the OPERA framework, discuss key skin cancer risk factors, and explain how to assess lesions safely and systematica
How to Take an Eye (Ophthalmology) History | Red Flags & OSCE Tips
🎧 Subscribe to OSCE Talk Premium here 👇https://members.spotify.com/to/osce-talk In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a clear, structured ophthalmology history for OSCEs and real clinical practice.We cover the key eye symptoms you must ask about, how to use a simple framework to avoid missing red flags, and how to recognise ophthalmological emergencies such as sudden vision loss,
Medicine MMI Explained | How Interviews Really Work
Welcome to Osce Talk 👋In this episode, we break down Medicine MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) interviews and explain how they really work, based on our own experiences getting into medical school and sitting MMIs ourselves.We cover:What an MMI actually isWhy MMIs are used instead of traditional interviewsCommon MMI station types (role play, ethics, communication, prioritisation)What medical schools
How to Take a Collapse History | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down how to take a structured collapse history, one of the most important and high-stakes presentations in emergency and general medical practice.They guide you through the essential Before–During–After framework, helping you differentiate between causes such as seizures, vasovagal episodes, cardiac arrhythmias, and functional collapses.You’ll
Headache History Taking – Key Questions, Red Flags & Migraine Features | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down how to take a structured headache history — one of the most common and important presentations in OSCEs and clinical practice.We explore the different headache types, how to use the SOCRATES framework effectively, and the key associated symptoms you must always ask about.You’ll also learn how to spot migraine aura, identify dangerous red f
Thyroid History Taking: Hyper vs Hypo | OSCE Talk
🎙️ Episode – Thyroid History Taking: Hyper vs Hypo | OSCE TalkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter take a deep dive into how to take a structured thyroid history — a topic many students find challenging due to vague and non-specific symptoms.We break down the key features of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, how to differentiate them clinically, and the important red flags you must no
Type 2 Diabetes History – Key Questions & Management | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Type 2 diabetes — one of the most common and important long-term conditions you'll encounter in both exams and clinical practice.We cover the underlying insulin resistance, the key symptoms and diagnostic thresholds, major risk factors, and how to take a focused diabetes history in an OSCE.You'll also learn the stepwise approach to management, in
Type 1 Diabetes – Symptoms, Diagnosis & Management | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down Type 1 diabetes — a lifelong autoimmune condition in which the body destroys its own insulin-producing beta cells.We explore its pathophysiology, how to recognise the early clinical signs, and the essential diagnostic criteria you need to know for exams and real-world practice. The discussion covers day-to-day management, insulin therapy,
How to Take a Urinary History – Key Symptoms & Red Flags | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down how to take a clear, structured, and sensitive urinary history — one of the most commonly examined presentations in OSCEs and everyday clinical practice.We explore the key voiding and storage symptoms, how to approach more delicate topics such as incontinence, sexual health, and prostate symptoms, and the significance of red flags like h
Gastrointestinal History Taking | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter break down how to approach gastrointestinal (GI) presentations, with a focus on understanding abdominal pain — one of the most common and challenging complaints in both OSCEs and real clinical practice.We explore how to differentiate visceral vs. somatic pain, how pain location guides diagnosis, and the key symptoms and red flags you must not miss. T
MSK History Taking: Osteoarthritis vs Rheumatoid Arthritis | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk we focus on the history and clinical presentation of both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, alongside its impact on patients.Key aspects to highlight in this episode include:Joint pain in osteoarthritis worsens with activity, while in rheumatoid arthritis, it can occur at rest.Morning stiffness in rheumatoid arthritis lasts longer than in osteoarthritis.Physical activity
Anaemia History Taking – How to Diagnose & Manage in OSCEs | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter explore anaemia — one of the most common presentations in clinical medicine and a frequent OSCE topic.You’ll learn how to take a focused anaemia history, recognise key symptoms and red flags, and confidently approach diagnosis and management in both exams and real-life settings.We cover the main types of anaemia — microcytic, normocytic, and macroc
Asthma History Taking & Management | OSCE Talk
🎙️ Episode 6 – Asthma History Taking & Management | OSCE TalkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter take a deep dive into asthma — one of the most common and high-yield respiratory conditions in both OSCEs and clinical practice.We discuss how to take a clear, structured asthma history, identify common triggers, and assess control. You’ll also learn how to explain inhaler use effecti
Respiratory History Taking: Spotting Red Flags | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter focus on how to take a structured respiratory history — and how to recognise red flags that could indicate serious underlying disease.We guide you through the OPERA framework, highlight key symptoms to explore (including cough, hemoptysis, and weight loss), and discuss how to sensitively approach difficult topics such as smoking history or suspecte
Heart Failure: How to Take a History & Management |OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter discuss heart failure — a core topic in cardiology and a common OSCE presentation.They explore the key differences between left- and right-sided heart failure, how to recognise acute versus chronic cases, and what to ask during a focused patient history. You’ll also learn about diagnostic tests such as BNP and echocardiography, plus the four pillar
Chest Pain History Taking – How to Structure an OSCE History | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter walk through a full example of how to take a chest pain history — putting into practice the frameworks and skills discussed in earlier episodes.We show how to structure questions, explore symptoms, and think through different causes while keeping communication clear and patient-centred. This episode is designed to help you visualise what an organis
Mastering Patient History Taking | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter dive into one of the most important skills in medicine — taking a great patient history.We explore how to make strong first impressions, communicate effectively, and structure your consultations using proven frameworks like SOCRATES, OPERA and ICE. From open-ended questioning to summarising and showing empathy, this episode is packed with practical
Welcome to OSCE Talk: Mastering Clinical Exams
In the very first episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter — two newly qualified doctors from Queen’s University Belfast — share why they created this podcast and how it can help you ace your OSCEs.We break down what makes OSCEs so challenging, how to prepare effectively, and why practicing with structure and feedback is the secret to success. From understanding mark schemes to building real confi
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