Align-ju STUDENT
Preparing for OSCEs
OSCEs are stressful for students and it is well recognised by many veterinary educators that students become anxious about practical exams ( Dunne et al ., 2018 ; Yon , 2020 ). Studies have found that students experience the highest levels of anxiety leading up to , and on the day of , the OSCEs ( Barry et al ., 2012 ; Dunne et al ., 2018 ). Therefore , it is essential that SVNs , RVNs and education providers work together to guide students toward OSCEs to minimise these effects ( Yon , 2020 ). Dunne et al . ( 2018 ) found that students were anxious from early in their training , and that the stressors identified resembled those reported by nursing and midwifery students . Clarification of the exam process , practising with a clinical coach and doing mock OSCEs have all been shown to reduce anxiety significantly ( Yon , 2020 ). Students can also minimise their stress by being organised beforehand and implementing the revision methods discussed .
Additional coping skills and focusing on self-belief and resilience can also reduce exam anxiety in the run-up to OSCEs . Recognising stress and taking care of yourself around the time of written and practical exams can help to improve outcome . Mental wellbeing is increasingly acknowledged and supported in the veterinary profession , and the Vetlife organisation has a student support section you may find helpful if you feel overwhelmed . One of the most important things to remember , throughout the whole revision process , is to stay calm and positive – if you have a bad day , rest and allow yourself time to recover before revising again .
Conclusion
Veterinary nurse training is competitive , challenging and stressful . From the outset , SVNs are often intimidated by OSCEs and are expected to learn a wide range of nursing theories , conditions and practical skills , while also working in veterinary practice . Clarification of the exam process , practising at work and doing mock OSCEs have all been shown to reduce anxiety significantly and improve OSCE outcomes . Revision resources such as videos , mind maps , flowcharts and mnemonics can also prove useful . Balancing student life with working in veterinary practice can be difficult , so it is important to take time for yourself and maintain a positive outlook .
Volume 37 ( 4 ) • September 2022
57