The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) in the UK has introduced significant updates to the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in 2024 to align with current clinical practices and enhance the exam’s relevance. Key updates include:
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- New Scenarios and Time Adjustments:
A new Evidence-Based Practice (EBP) station scenario focusing on Obesity Management has been added to reflect current healthcare priorities
Time adjustments for specific stations:
Fluid Balance: Increased from 12 to 14 minutes.
Mid-Stream Urine (MSU) and Urinalysis: Increased from 8 to 12 minutes
Nasopharyngeal Suctioning: Increased from 8 to 10 minutes
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- Updated Tools and Guidelines:
Introduction of new Paediatric Early Warning Score (PEWS) charts, aligning the exam with updated national clinical standards in paediatric care.
Updates to the Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT) station:
Gloves and aprons are now required only when clinically necessary.
The “Clean hand – dirty hand” approach has been removed
Suppository insertion has been removed from the Mental Health OSCE, replaced with a more relevant skill: Intramuscular Injection
Some high-fail-rate or less frequently used skills, such as CPR in adult scenarios, have been removed to reduce candidate stress and align assessments with clinical reality
- Transition Period:
Candidates appearing before September 30, 2024, should continue using the older preparation materials. The new guidelines and materials will be fully implemented afterward
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- Marking Criteria:
Updates to the marking criteria across specializations, ensuring assessments accurately reflect safe and effective nursing care
Patient Life Matters; These changes are designed to ensure that OSCE remains a robust and relevant measure of a nurse’s clinical skills. For candidates preparing for the OSCE, detailed resources and guidance are available through training platforms and NMC updates.
