What Does the SJT Test?

Abstract

The SJT was developed to test nine professional attributes identified from a detailed analysis of the FY1 role. These attributes are as follows: However, the SJT recognizes that there is considerable overlap between these attributes and that some cannot be effectively assessed with a written test. As a result, SJT questions focus on the five attributes highlighted in bold. It is worth considering what the SJT requires of candidates according to each key attribute. Candidates must be honest, trustworthy, reliable, and aware of ethical issues (e.g. confidentiality). They should challenge behaviour that is unacceptable or risks patient safety. Candidates should take appropriate responsibility for their own actions and omissions. Candidates must be resilient and remain calm under pressure. Judgement should not be affected by pressure and candidates should develop appropriate coping strategies. Candidates should communicate (verbally and in writing) concisely and clearly. They should be able to vary their communication style appropriately and to negotiate, and be willing to engage others in open dialogue. Candidates should always show respect to patients. They should adopt a collaborative approach to decision- making with patients as well as maintaining courtesy, empathy, and compassion. Candidates should be able to work in partnership while respecting different views. They should share tasks fairly and ask advice from others when necessary. Despite appearances, the SJT is a knowledge- based examination. It is important to remember throughout that questions ask what you should do, rather than what you would do in any given situation. Therefore, it is a test of whether you know the ‘correct’ action and not whether you would act correctly if working as a doctor. For example, a question might introduce you as an FY1 doctor on a busy ward. You are told to examine an elderly patient of the opposite sex and all the nurses are occupied elsewhere. You might have seen doctors examine patients under these circumstances without a chaperone. You might even think that this would be your approach in real life. However, you know on some level that a better solution is to insist on (or at least to offer) the presence of a chaperone.