{"title":"Preparing for clinical examinations","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0049","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0049","url":null,"abstract":"This chapter prepares you for the leap between preparing for exams at secondary school and preparing for exams at medical school. The differences in preparation have been broken down into various methods. At university, written exams consist of multiple choice questions, extended matching questions, short answer questions, essays, and others. There will also be the introduction of practical exams in the form of OSCEs, oral presentations, and poster presentations. Top tips and useful resources for preparing as well as examples of written questions have been provided too. There is also advice on dealing with poor results and what those exam results will be used for towards your final qualification.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"2 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"129630869","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Clinical examinations","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0050","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0050","url":null,"abstract":"This chapter provides guidance on how to perform clinical examinations in the following specialties: cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, neurological, cranial nerves, peripheral nerves, nervous system, obstetrics, gynaecology, ophthalmology, orthopaedic, general upper limb, spine, lower limb, and paediatrics. This chapter on clinical examination emphasizes the ability to elicit physical signs and use them to complement laboratory or radiological investigations as a diagnostic tool. It reviews important do’s and don’ts as well as end-of-the-bed observations. It also discusses signs present with diseases, and tips for around the bed space. The use of tables and illustrations is a useful aide-memoire both for revision and for use in practice. Although clinical examination is primarily taught on a patient, the structured and detailed approach of this chapter provides an insightful guide for a medical student.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"1 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"130150330","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Elderly care","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0011","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0011","url":null,"abstract":"Elderly care has replaced the previously used term ‘geriatrics’ and encompasses the general holistic care of the older person. With the ageing population, these specialist skills are in increasing demand. This chapter describes the common problems with which older patients present: instability, intellectual impairment, immobility, incontinence and constipation, infections, and iatrogenic complications, with an emphasis on the ensuing functional consequences. The role of the multidisciplinary team is outline. Focused approaches to the management of falls, delirium, and cognitive impairment are presented, as well as the pathophysiology of ageing and frailty. The chapter also includes a practical guide to the global geriatric assessment and discusses important end of life issues.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"1 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"130153668","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Studying at medical school","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0002","url":null,"abstract":"Chapter 2 outlines key considerations when choosing a medical school, including location, a city versus campus-based medical school, course teaching style and length, entry requirements, and need for aptitude testing. Tips on work experience, personal statement writing, and interview are given. An overview of learning styles and teaching is presented which may be a helpful tool to support medical school selection, and to set expectations of the learning environment at medical school. The basic sciences which formulate the medical curriculum (anatomy, physiology, etc.) are outlined and their scope is described. The various teaching formats at medical school are presented (lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based learning) as well as the practical sessions (microscopy, prosection, dissection). Tips for essay writing are presented as are the key considerations when tackling coursework. Placements are part of the medical school learning experience which place clinical learning into context, as well as clinical examinations. Tips on approaching GP and hospital placements are given. Mobile devices are important resources in medical education: a section on the ‘top ten apps’ for medical students helps to identify the most helpful applications at medical school.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"101 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125579790","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Immunology and allergies","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0019","url":null,"abstract":"Immunology and allergies is the study of the immune system and its defects, and encompasses both clinical medicine and laboratory-based science. Primary immunodeficiency disorders include X-linked agammaglobulinaemia, combined immunodeficiency, and common variable immunodeficiency. Secondary immunodeficiency disorders arise following treatment with cytotoxic or immunosuppressive drugs (e.g. chemotherapy or steroids) or as a result of acute infection. Patients are often treated with immunoglobulin therapy to reduce the risk of infection. Allergy clinics look after patients with severe food or drug allergies or with chronic urticarial conditions, and may also provide desensitization therapies to those affected by severe (e.g. nut) allergies to reduce the risk of anaphylactic reactions. This specialty is also responsible for the provision of clinical immunology services within a hospital (e.g. quality control, interpretation of laboratory assays, and liaison with other medical specialties).","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"35 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"127911469","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Preparing for preclinical exams","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0004","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0004","url":null,"abstract":"Chapter 4 aims to prepare the medical student for preclinical exams. The types of assessments are outlined, including formative and summative assessments, and categories of assessment (MCQs, EMQs, SAQs, anatomy spotters, essays, OSCEs, oral presentations, poster presentations, etc.). The chapter provides tips on preparing for preclinical exams, including example questions which illustrate how the disciplines may be assessed. Key resources for preparing for preclinical exams are listed, including past papers, senior medical students, courses, and apps. It is not uncommon to be disappointed with exam results, and this chapter provides perspective to such events, and strategies to tackle them. Exam results may be used in a variety of ways: such as assessing suitability for intercalation, classification of medical degree, and ranking for foundation applications. Tips for exam success are offered.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"54 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"117241773","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Starting as a medical student","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0001","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0001","url":null,"abstract":"Chapter 1 provides a plethora of practical tips on starting out as a medical student. In particular, notes on documentation required before starting medical school, student loans, living arrangements, and occupational health clearance will be of practical use to all students. Tips on what to purchase before starting (books, laptop, etc.) and which stethoscope to buy are presented. An approach to finances at medical school is outlined: budgeting for rent, bills, food, travel, stationery, books, and entertainment is as important as recognizing key sources of funding (student loans, organizations, bank loans, etc.). A guide to maximizing the first week at medical school/freshers’ week is offered including the most important societies to consider for medical students. Balancing work and other aspects of life is key to a sustained and happy career: an overview of strategies to manage stress is outlined. The transition from sixth form to medical student entails specific responsibilities which are helpfully summarized, as are tips on being a successful student doctor.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"34 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"128363423","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Clinical assessments","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0048","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0048","url":null,"abstract":"This chapter focuses on a number of different assessments that occur during clinical medical years and at the end of medical school, which may be formative or summative. The chapter reviews case presentations, and how best to structure them to reach a proposed management plan and summary. It provides students with an opportunity to explore differential diagnoses. It also discusses objective structured clinical examinations including examples of stations and practical advice with a focus on patient safety. This chapter includes examples of work-based assessments such as mini clinical evaluation exercises, case-based discussions, direct observation of procedural skills, and multisource feedback. It is written for both those looking to apply for medicine, and those in medical school.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"9 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"128007504","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Colorectal surgery","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0034","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0034","url":null,"abstract":"Chapter 34 provides an overview of the principles of colorectal surgery, and the common pathologies relevant to the speciality including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hernias, and perianal pathology. In addition, the acute abdomen, acute appendicitis, bowel obstruction, and acute diverticulitis are covered. Key investigations, operations, and procedures to see are summarized and include appendicectomy, colectomy, abdominoperineal resection, stoma, hernia repair, and the numerous investigations used in the context of an acute abdomen. Key knowledge and clinical skills relevant to colorectal surgery clinics are summarized with a particular emphasis on colorectal cancer, risk factors, symptoms/presentation, imaging studies, staging, and management. Inflammatory bowel disease may necessitate surgical intervention and the common acute and chronic presentations are summarized. The classification of abdominal wall hernias is outlined and key anatomical landmarks on clinical examination are illustrated. A list of differential diagnoses of groin lumps is presented with key investigations to differentiate them. Diverticular disease, haemorrhoids, anal fissures, rectal prolapse, and pilonidal disease are common and the clinical presentation, investigation, and management of each of these is outlined. Digital rectal examination is a key clinical skill in surgery and the steps involved are summarized. The anatomical approach to colorectal surgery is outlined and common approaches to the surgical management of appendicitis, hernia repair, hemicolectomy, primary anastomosis, and stoma surgery are presented. Mnemonics for recall of key anatomical landmarks are provided. Postoperative complications are outlined together with the approaches to management. An approach to assessment and management of the acute abdomen is outlined. Finally, key OSCE and examination topics relevant to colorectal surgery are outlined including stoma and hernia examination.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"23 2 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"125956969","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Basic investigations","authors":"","doi":"10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0046","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1093/med/9780199681907.003.0046","url":null,"abstract":"The chapter aims to provide a brief but thorough reference for the commonest urine and blood tests that medical students will encounter on the wards and in clinic. The chapter focuses in detail on the wealth of information provided by a simple urine dip, including signs of infection, haematuria, pregnancy (or ectopic pregnancy), and metabolic disorders. The chapter discusses in detail how to read a full blood count which can give clues not only to infection but also to chronic infection, leukaemias, parasites, allergy, iron deficiency, and many other disease processes. The chapter also discusses the use of the reticulocyte count to help differentiate between haemolytic anaemias (raised) and bone marrow failure (decreased, e.g. from cancer). A guide to findings on blood films is also given. The clotting cascade and clotting parameters are summarized. The commonest tests in clinical chemistry, including blood glucose, renal and liver function, and bone profile are also discussed. A guide to blood gas analysis, with common examples, is also covered, along with a systematic approach to electrocardiogram interpretation.","PeriodicalId":438927,"journal":{"name":"Oxford Handbook for Medical School","volume":"28 1","pages":"0"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2019-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"123167580","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}