PLAB Part 2 Sample Teaching Resources | MD Acumen

PLAB Part 2 — Sample OSCE Teaching Resources

A curated set of simulated cases demonstrating consultation structure, patient-centred communication, safety-netting, and professional standards expected at Foundation Year 2 level. MD Acumen is an independent education provider and is not affiliated with the GMC.

GMC: PLAB and the MLA GMC: PLAB overview GMC: Misconduct procedures
Integrity notice: these are independently authored simulated stations for teaching. We do not use, request, or distribute recalled exam content. Educational use only (not clinical advice). No guarantee of exam success. Candidates must book PLAB directly with the GMC and comply with GMC regulations.

The MD Acumen OSCE method (high-level)

Aligned to typical OSCE domains: data gathering, clinical management, interpersonal skills.
Good OSCE performance is driven by clear structure, a defensible plan, and calm communication under time pressure.

Six sample OSCE cases (teaching exemplars)

Small cohort approach Human-verified Safety-first

The case summaries below are intentionally concise—enough to demonstrate teaching quality without disclosing full station packs.

Safeguarding

Adult safeguarding: suspected domestic abuse

Consultation focuses on safety, disclosure, and agreed escalation steps.
8 mins No examination Risk assessment
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Explore the context sensitively; check immediate safety and fear.
  • Assess risk to dependants; clarify confidentiality limits.
  • Agree a safety plan and signpost to specialist support.
What examiners reward
  • Trauma-informed, non-judgemental questioning.
  • Clear escalation thresholds and documentation plan.
  • Practical safety-netting and follow-up.
Communication

Breaking bad news: liver cirrhosis

Deliver diagnosis, explore impact, plan investigations/referral, and support.
SPIKES Safety-net Shared decisions
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Check understanding; deliver news clearly, in small chunks.
  • Explain likely causes/complications and next steps.
  • Offer realistic support without guarantees.
Common pitfalls
  • Over-talking or sounding scripted.
  • False reassurance / certainty.
  • Missing red flags and follow-up plan.
Breaking bad news

CXR suspicious for lung malignancy

Explain uncertainty, urgent pathway, and manage anxiety.
8 mins Urgent referral Empathy
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Explain that further tests are required (avoid definitive labels).
  • Outline next investigations and referral process.
  • Safety-net symptoms and arrange follow-up.
Interpersonal skills
  • Pause, listen, validate emotion, check understanding.
  • Use plain language and avoid jargon.
  • Offer support resources.
Sexual health

Gonorrhoea: management & partner notification

Confidentiality, treatment pathway, and public health responsibilities.
Non-judgemental Clear plan Confidentiality
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Deliver diagnosis clearly; brief relevant sexual history.
  • Explain management steps and STI screening.
  • Discuss partner notification options.
Professionalism
  • Appropriate confidentiality statements (not scripted).
  • Respectful language; consent and shared decisions.
  • Document and safety-net.
Mental health

Low mood: suicide risk assessment & urgent plan

Direct risk questions, protective factors, and safe escalation.
Direct questions Crisis pathway Safety plan
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Ask about ideation, intent, plan, and means access.
  • Assess protective factors and supports.
  • Agree a safe plan and clear follow-up / referral route.
Clinical management
  • Escalate appropriately based on risk.
  • Safety-net: when to seek urgent help.
  • Document risk assessment and decisions.
Telephone station

Headache phone consult: likely migraine + safety-netting

Focused history, red flags, provisional diagnosis, and advice.
SOCRATES 8 mins Red flags
Candidate task (high-level)
  • Structured headache history + red flags.
  • Explain likely diagnosis; self-care + appropriate medications.
  • Clear return precautions and follow-up plan.
Efficiency markers
  • Time management: do not over-explore irrelevant detail.
  • Check understanding; concise closing summary.
  • Practical, specific safety-netting.
Tip: Many candidates lose marks by missing the station task or using over-rehearsed “stock phrases”.
Disclaimer: Educational content only (not clinical advice). No guarantee of examination success. Candidates must book PLAB examinations directly with the GMC and comply with GMC regulations.