OSCE Test

Over-the-counter request for sneezing and a blocked nose
PEBC OSCE practice station

Medicines counselling · 2 min to read · 7 min to perform

Try a real conversation · PEBC OSCEAI practice

Assess his complaint, choose and recommend from these products, and counsel him on use, what to expect and when to seek further care.

Bryce FenwickHi there. Every spring I get stuffed up and sneezy and my eyes drive me nuts. What have you got that will clear it up fast?

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The task

You are a pharmacist in a community pharmacy. Mr Bryce Fenwick, aged 58, asks for something over the counter for sneezing, itchy eyes and a blocked nose that have bothered him for three weeks. He is alone. A blood pressure monitor is available at the counter. The shelf offers: a second-generation oral antihistamine, a nasal corticosteroid spray, an oral decongestant combination product, a sedating oral antihistamine and a saline rinse. Assess his complaint, choose and recommend from these products, and counsel him on use, what to expect and when to seek further care. The assessor will not take part in the conversation.

What this station tests

  • Match the product to the symptoms and to the person: current medicines and blood pressure rule products in or out.
  • Ask about previous reactions: a past decongestant reaction is a strong cue.
  • Explain why a product is not chosen, as well as why one is.
  • Safety at work matters: avoid sedating products for people who drive.
  • Refer a raised blood pressure reading to the prescriber and arrange follow-up.

Sources for the clinical content

An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.

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