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
Vaccinations, Misinformation, and Paediatric Counselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
Please subscribe on Spotify for more premium content in the future, £1.99 will help us produce more of these videos!Peter 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
Intrauterine Devices Made Easy, Copper and Hormonal Coils Explained! | OSCE Talk 🎙️
Subscribe on Spotify for more premium content in the future, just £1.99 to help us produce more of these videos :)This episode we compare and contrast the hormonal and copper coils, which are both a reliable form of long acting reversible contraception, with a focus on keeping this simple, knowing the main risks and benefits with each option, and what features are applicable to both options.Be awa
Opioid Prescribing & Counselling | OSCE Talk
This episode delves into opioid prescribing, when to use this appropriately in post operative and palliative care settings.Side effects to counsel patients on including nausea/vomiting/constipation/sedation.Toxicity and key features of this.What signs to look out for in patients where you have a concern about addiction or dependence.Alternative anaglesia that may help patients avoid opioid use.Thi
Prostate Cancer Diagnosis, Screening & PSA Testing | OSCE Talk 🎙️
This 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 level of this in the blood.We also look at the need for onward referral to Urol
Tonsillitis and Otitis Media, Viral VS Bacterial Infections
This episode we look at differentiating viral and bacterial infections, using the feverPAIN score for tonsillitis to rule out viral causes.Otitis media is covered and the importance of identifying red flag, mastoiditis and meningitis.We talk about overuse of antibiotics for viral infections and how to discuss this with patients. The use of delayed prescriptions for safety netting purposes.🎧 Listen
Meningitis Overview | OSCE Talk
This 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 with untreated complications and the need for contact tracing and possible prophyl
Tuberculosis: Differentials, Diagnosis, & Management | OSCE Talk
This episode is all about tuberculosis, its diagnosis and management.We look at how to break it down as pulmonary vs extra pulmonary TB, latent vs active TB, and the broad differentials of pneumonia, sarcoid, and malignancy.We go through the workup necessary including a chest xray, CT, sputum samples and other basic investigations.Public health involvement is key for contact tracing and then we lo
Breaking Bad News to Patients in the Medical Setting | OSCE Talk
In this episode we focus on breaking bad news to patients.This often comes in the form of breaking diagnosis to patients such as cancer, MS, epilepsy, or even explaining a mistake made by the medical team to patients. We follow the SPIKES structure and the importance of the warning shot in preparing patients for difficult news.This episode is all about empathy, honesty, being able to communicate i
Levodopa Explained | Parkinson’s Treatment, Side Effects & OSCE Counselling
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we focus on one of the most important medications in neurology — levodopa, the cornerstone of treatment in Parkinson’s disease.We break down how levodopa works, how it should be prescribed, and—most importantly—how to explain and counsel it clearly in an OSCE or real clinical setting.We start by explaining the mechanism of action, including how levodopa crosses the bl
Parkinson’s Disease Explained | Symptoms, Causes, Differentials & Management | OSCE TALK
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down Parkinson’s Disease in a clear, structured, and clinically relevant way.We start with what Parkinson’s actually is — a progressive neurodegenerative condition caused by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra — and explain how this leads to the classic features of Parkinsonism.We then cover the key clinical features using the TRAP mnemonic (
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Explained | Causes, Symptoms, Staging & Management (OSCE Guide)
In 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, before working through the most common causes, including diabetes, hypertension, a
Hyperkalaemia Emergency Management | OSCE Talk
This 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 calcium gluconate, insulin, dextrose, salbutamol and potassium binders to prevent a
Ectopic Pregnancy Overview, History, and Counselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In 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 through how to counsel patients sensitively on this condition also. We finish with a
Paediatric Limp - MSK Overview | OSCE Talk 🎙️
This episode focusses on the main causes of paediatric limp and MSK evaluation - the main conditions covered are DDH, Perthes Disease, Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis, Transient Synovitis and Septic Arthritis alongside Osteosarcoma. We go through the main risk factors, diagnostic methods and treatment options for these. Alongside red flags for paediatric limp to not miss in medical school exams
Neonatal Jaundice Made EASY | Red Flags You MUST Know for OSCEs
Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common paediatric presentations you will encounter in both exams and clinical practice. While most cases are physiological and harmless, recognising the red flags is essential to avoid missing serious underlying pathology.In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break neonatal jaundice down into a clear, structured approach that you can apply in OSCEs and on the wards.
Obstetric Haemorrhage History Taking | OSCE Talk🎙️
This episode focusses on obstetic history taking and haemorrhage. Looking at the differentials of antepartum haemorrhage to be aware of including: placental abruption, placenta previa/vasa previa.Other causes of haemorrhage in the perinatal period including miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy.We look at how best to approach management of these in an exam scenario, including the need for adequate exa
Schizophrenia OSCE: First Rank Symptoms Explained (Psychiatry History Guide)
In 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, changes in behaviour, sleep disturbance and declining daily functioning. Over
Clozapine: The Gold Standard for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia
In this episode, we break down clozapine — the gold standard treatment for treatment-resistant schizophrenia.Clozapine is one of the most effective antipsychotics available, but it requires careful monitoring and patient education due to its unique side-effect profile.We cover:• What defines treatment-resistant schizophrenia• Why clozapine is used• Mechanism of action (high-yield overview)• Smokin
Don’t Miss These Obstetric Red Flags! History Taking for Exams & Practice
In this episode, we break down how to take a safe, structured obstetric history.Obstetric histories can feel overwhelming — you’re assessing both the mother and the baby, while also screening for potentially life-threatening complications. This episode gives you a clear structure to stay safe in exams and clinical practice.We cover:• How to structure the presenting complaint• Characterising bleedi
Lithium Counselling Made Clear! OSCE Structure, Monitoring & Toxicity Explained
In 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.We cover:• Indications for lithium (bipolar disorder & treatment-resistant
Eating Disorder History Taking Made Clear! OSCE Structure, Red Flags & Refeeding Syndrome
In this episode, we break down how to take a safe, structured history from a patient with a suspected eating disorder.This is a high-yield OSCE station and a clinically important skill — anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality of any psychiatric illness, often due to cardiac complications, electrolyte disturbances and suicide.We cover:• How to sensitively approach eating disorder histories• Ano
Antidepressant Overview, SSRI Conselling | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we focus on SSRI antidepressants: sertraline, citalopram, fluoxetine. We walk through the mechanism of these medications, their common side effects. The need to monitor for suicide risk in the under 25s. What medications interact with SSRIs. The importance of these medications alongside proper cognitive behavioural therapy in the management of depression.We finish wit
Paediatric History Taking Overview | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to take a structured paediatric historyWe 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 cover all basic symptoms.We go through the importances of birth, feeding, growth
Psychiatric History Taking Explained | OSCE Talk 🎙️
In 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, and going through the importance of RISK in psychiatry.This episode is designed
Type 2 Diabetes & Metformin | OSCE Counselling for Clinical Exams
In this Osce Talk episode, we show you exactly how to counsel a patient with type 2 diabetes, followed by a clear, OSCE-ready explanation of metformin.This episode is designed for OSCEs and clinical exams, using simple language, logical structure, and the key points examiners expect.We cover:How to explain type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance to patientsShort- and long-term complications (heart,
Hypothyroidism Explained | Levothyroxine Counselling for OSCEs & Clinical Exams
In 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 languageDosing, side effects, monitoring, and pregnancy considerationsHigh-yield counselling
Addisons Disease and Steroids: Counselling Patients and Steroid Side Effects | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we discuss Addisons disease, and the use of steroids as long term treatment.We cover the general presentation and mechanism of Addisons disease, and the risk of addisonian crisis.We focus on steroids their side effects, both short and long term, and the importance of doubling these whilst unwell. This episode is ideal for medical students, OSCE preparation, and founda
Osteoporosis and Bisphosphonates: Patient Counselling and Management | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to counsel a patient on osteoporosis and its management with bisphosphonates.This includes risk factors for osteoporosis.The FRAX risk scoring system and interpreting DEXA scan results.Basic management and lifestyle changes to improve bone health.What bisphosphonates are eg: alendronic acid.Common side effects, rare risks, and safety-netting.This epi
Statin Counselling Explained: High Cholesterol & QRISK | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to counsel a patient with high cholesterol, focusing on statins, QRISK, and clear patient-friendly explanations for OSCEs and clinical practice.We cover:What cholesterol is and why it mattersHow to explain QRISK and cardiovascular risk to patientsWhen to start statins and why lifestyle changes alone may not be enoughHow statins work (in simple terms
How to Counsel a Patient on Asthma & Inhaler Technique | OSCE Talk
In 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 vaccinationsPreventer vs reliever inhalers and when control is poorStep-by-step inhaler technique,
How to Counsel a Patient on Heart Failure | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we walk through how to counsel a patient diagnosed with heart failure, a common and high-yield OSCE and clinical scenario.Using a realistic doctor–patient role-play, we cover:How to explain heart failure in clear, patient-friendly languageLinking symptoms such as breathlessness, orthopnoea, and oedema to the underlying conditionCommon causes of heart failure, includin
First Seizure Explained | History, Red Flags & Patient Counselling | OSCE Talk
In this episode of Osce Talk, we cover how to take a focused first seizure history and how to explain a seizure to patients in clear, patient-friendly language.We walk through:How to structure a first seizure history (before, during, after)Key red flags you must not miss in OSCEsHow to explain what a seizure is (and why it’s not always epilepsy)Immediate seizure first aid advice for patients and f
How to Counsel a Patient on Migraine | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we cover how to counsel a patient with migraine — a common OSCE and clinical scenario.We walk through:How migraine typically presents (with and without aura)Common triggers and red flags you must not missHow to explain migraine in clear, patient-friendly languageStep-by-step management: lifestyle advice, acute treatments, and preventionWhen to escalate, safety-net, an
How to Counsel a Patient on Eczema & Psoriasis | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Peter and Matthew talk through how to counsel a patient with eczema and psoriasis, with a strong focus on clear, patient-friendly explanations and practical management advice.We start by breaking down eczema as a chronic atopic condition, explaining the skin-barrier problem in simple terms that patients can understand. We discuss common triggers, the relapsing–remitti
How to Counsel a Patient on Warfarin | OSCE Talk
🎙️ How to Counsel a Patient on Warfarin | OSCE TalkIn this episode of OSCE Talk, Peter and Matthew walk through how to counsel a patient on Warfarin, focusing on the key differences compared with DOACs such as Apixaban.We cover when Warfarin is indicated, including mechanical heart valves, rheumatic heart disease, and antiphospholipid syndrome, before breaking down INR monitoring, dose adjustment,
How to Counsel a Patient on Apixaban | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to counsel a patient on Apixaban — a common anticoagulant used for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation and for the treatment and prevention of DVT and PE.We cover what Apixaban is, why it’s prescribed, and how to clearly explain benefits, bleeding risks, and safety advice to patients in an OSCE-friendly way.You’ll learn how to structure anticoag
How to Explain Atrial Fibrillation to Patients | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Peter and Matthew break down atrial fibrillation (AF) — one of the most common and clinically important cardiac arrhythmias you’ll encounter in OSCEs and practice.We explore what AF is, the different types of atrial fibrillation, and why it significantly increases the risk of stroke. The episode then walks through AF management, including rate vs rhythm control, the r
ACE Inhibitor Counselling (Ramipril) | Side Effects, Monitoring & OSCE Tips | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we break down how to counsel a patient starting an ACE inhibitor, with a specific focus on Ramipril, one of the most commonly prescribed antihypertensives in clinical practice.We cover when ACE inhibitors are indicated, how to explain their benefits in simple, patient-friendly language, and how to counsel safely on side effects, monitoring, and red flags. The episode
How to Counsel a Patient with Hypertension | OSCE TALK
In this episode of OSCE Talk, we focus on how to counsel patients with hypertension, one of the most common and important conditions you’ll encounter in OSCEs and clinical practice.We break down what hypertension is, why it’s often called the “silent killer”, and how to communicate risk effectively to patients who may feel completely asymptomatic. The episode covers key risk factors, long-term com
Patient Counselling in OSCEs | Explaining Diagnoses & Medications | OSCE Talk
In 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 jargon. The episode covers how to assess a patient’s prior knowledge, address co
Dermatology History Taking | Skin Lesions, Cancer Risk & OSCE Frameworks | OSCE Talk
In 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 systematically using the ABCDE framework. The episode also highlights the importance of un
How to Take an Eye (Ophthalmology) History | Red Flags & OSCE Tips
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, flashes, floaters, and diplopia.Using a practical case example, we guide you th
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
MSK History Taking: Joint Pain, Red Flags & Communication | OSCE Talk
In this episode of OSCE Talk, Matthew and Peter explore how to take a clear and structured musculoskeletal (MSK) history — one of the most versatile and important skills in clinical exams and everyday practice.We cover how to assess joint pain, identify patterns and red flags, and distinguish between mechanical and inflammatory causes such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The discussi
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
Recommended
English Made Simple
Lucy & Sam's Perfect Brains
Murder of a Famous Bastard
Write Me Dirty with Katherine Ryan
A Good Read
Quickly Kevin; will he score? The 90s Football Show
The Jon Richardson Show on Absolute Radio
British English Listening Practice - English Go! Podcast
BIG KICK ENERGY
Out To Lunch
A Life More Wild
Shut Up I’m Talking
