OSCEs

It’s rolling around to another OSCE window – that memorable day in a SVN’s life when their skills and nerves are put to the test.

I remember mine well. My boyfriend drove me to them (thank you darling) and they were handily timed at 10am. I would be finished and having a pub lunch by 1pm!

I completed them and then cried all the way home. I could only remember the bad stuff. I cried some more. I called work and cried to them.

I had a large glass of Rioja and a Caesar salad and felt better.

It felt like forever and my results came through. Not only did I pass, but I got a pass with credit! Finally I was a qualified vet nurse!

For those sitting now and in the future I have limited words of wisdom – your brain won’t remember much more in a time of stress!

1. Breathe
2. Read the task
3. Do the task you have been asked to do

Phrases such as “don’t panic”, “you’ll be fine” and “it’ll be alright” will be uttered at you regularly in the lead up to exams. Don’t listen! Have a simple mantra:

1. Breathe
2. Read the task
3. Do the task you have been asked to do

Good Luck – you can do it!