Starting a statin to lower heart disease risk
PLAB 2 practice station
Counselling & explanation · 1 min to read · 8 min to perform
Discuss with him the options for reducing his risk and, if he agrees, explain a statin: how it works, how to take it, side effects and follow up.
Rajesh IyerHello doctor. The nurse said I should speak to you about my cholesterol and I am not sure I want tablets.
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You are a doctor in a GP surgery. Mr Rajesh Iyer, aged 58, had a routine health check. His ten year risk of heart attack or stroke has been calculated as 14 per cent, and his cholesterol is raised. He has no previous heart disease. He is alone. Discuss with him the options for reducing his risk and, if he agrees, explain a statin: how it works, how to take it, side effects and follow up. The examiner will not take part in the conversation.
What this station tests
- Translate percentage risk into out of 100 people.
- Elicit and answer the patient's specific fears about statins.
- Name the drug and dose, the main side effect to report and the follow up.
- Share the decision; the patient may decline.
Sources for the clinical content
- NICE NG238: Cardiovascular disease: risk assessment and reduction, including lipid modification
- GMC: Decision making and consent
An original practice scenario with invented patients. Not an exam question.