References Provided in OSCE Test Stations
Member Ahmad Sameh asked:
I need help, what are the references that are provided in OSCE? Do I have to memorize all trade names and doses?
The PEBC websites provides the following information regarding references available during the OSCE exam:
[quote] References - Part II (OSCE) Stations (The most current edition of the following references or excerpts thereof may be provided in the stations):- Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS), Canadian Pharmacists Association (most current or second most current edition) – provided in each station
- Patient Self-Care (PSC), Canadian Pharmacists Association.
- Herbs Everyday Reference for Health Professionals, ed. by F. Chandler, Canadian Pharmacists Association
- Therapeutic Choices, ed. by J. Gray, Canadian Pharmacists Association
- USP Dispensing Information (USP-DI):Vol. 1- Drug Information for the Health care Professional or Vol. 2 -Advice for the Patient, Micromedex Inc.
- Handbook of Clinical Drug Data, ed. by Knoben, Anderson and Troutman, McGraw-Hill Medical.
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, text or web site: www.NaturalDatabase.com
- Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation, by Briggs et al, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
- Health Canada publications
- Other professional references, where appropriate. [/quote]
As a pharmacist you will be expected to know trade names and have a good idea of drugs doses. In the OSCE a patient may ask you to recommend a product and ask you how to use it. While some of the products provided may give you recommended doses it is not guaranteed. If you get stuck you could use a resource such as patient self care to find a suitable product and dosing information. However, if you know a good range of common OTC products and how they are used it will make things much easier for you and help you in every day practice. As such I would say yes you do need to know these for the OSCE. Check out the Pharmacist's guide to OTC health management 2008 for a start.
Good luck,
Mat
