The Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a crucial milestone for internationally qualified nurses seeking Australian registration. One of the most fundamental skills tested in OSCE is patient assessment—your ability to systematically evaluate a patient’s condition, recognize abnormalities, and respond appropriately.
In this blog, we’ll break down essential assessment techniques, common challenges, and expert tips to help you ace this station with confidence!
Why Patient Assessment Matters in OSCE?
The OSCE patient assessment station evaluates your ability to:
✅ Perform a structured and systematic assessment
✅ Use the A to E (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure) approach
✅ Recognize abnormal findings and escalate appropriately
✅ Communicate effectively with the patient
✅ Document findings accurately
A strong patient assessment is the foundation of safe and effective nursing care, making it one of the most critical OSCE stations.
Mastering the A to E Assessment
The A to E (ABCDE) approach is the gold standard for assessing critically ill patients. Follow this structured method to ensure a thorough and systematic assessment during your OSCE:
1️⃣ Airway (A) – Is the Airway Clear?
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Check for airway obstruction (choking, swelling, foreign body).
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Look for signs of stridor, hoarseness, or difficulty speaking.
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If obstructed, perform airway maneuvers (head-tilt, jaw thrust, suctioning).
💡 OSCE Tip: If the patient is speaking normally, the airway is likely clear!
2️⃣ Breathing (B) – Is the Patient Breathing Adequately?
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Observe respiratory rate, depth, and effort.
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Check oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and auscultate lung sounds.
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Look for signs of cyanosis, use of accessory muscles, or asymmetrical chest movement.
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Intervene if needed (oxygen therapy, nebulizers, positioning).
💡 OSCE Tip: A normal respiratory rate is 12-20 breaths per minute—anything outside this range needs further assessment.
3️⃣ Circulation (C) – Is Perfusion Adequate?
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Assess heart rate, blood pressure, and capillary refill time.
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Look for pallor, sweating, or cold extremities (signs of shock).
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Palpate peripheral pulses and check for signs of bleeding or fluid loss.
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Administer IV fluids if necessary (as per orders).
💡 OSCE Tip: Capillary refill time >2 seconds may indicate poor circulation.
4️⃣ Disability (D) – Assess Neurological Status
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Check level of consciousness using the AVPU scale (Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive).
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Assess pupil size and reaction to light.
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Perform a blood glucose check if altered consciousness is noted.
💡 OSCE Tip: Hypoglycemia can mimic neurological issues—always check blood glucose!
5️⃣ Exposure (E) – Check the Whole Body for Clues
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Inspect for rashes, wounds, or injuries.
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Measure temperature (signs of infection or hypothermia).
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Maintain patient dignity and warmth while assessing.
💡 OSCE Tip: Always verbalize your findings to the examiner!
Common OSCE Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them
❌ Skipping steps – Always follow a structured A to E approach.
❌ Ignoring abnormal findings – Identify abnormal values and state appropriate interventions.
❌ Poor communication – Always explain what you’re doing to the patient and seek consent.
❌ Lack of documentation – Clearly record findings and escalate concerns when necessary.
Final OSCE Success Tips
🔥 Practice the A to E assessment until it becomes second nature.
🔥 Speak your thought process out loud to the examiner.
🔥 Always check vital signs and escalate abnormal findings.
🔥 Stay calm, confident, and professional throughout your assessment.
Ace Your OSCE with NAI!
At Nurse Assist International (NAI), we provide expert OSCE training, unlimited practice sessions, and hands-on coaching to ensure you pass with flying colors.
💡 Ready to take your OSCE preparation to the next level? Enroll with NAI today!