i need an advice fro step 2 cs retake. got my score report yesterday and i was ****ed at the evaluation they gave me. I passed both interpersonal skills and english proficiency.And failed in the clinical encounter part. When I looked at the detailed summary of my performance, I was in high performance in patient note, questioning skills, ifo. sharing, prof. manner and english. To me, the evaluation is just inconsistent because how can they grade me a high score in patient note and questioning skills if I did poorly in my data gathering. In all 12 SP's in Houston testing center, I did thorough physical examinations and even did specific tests like: obturator,psoas, murphy's sign when it was required. I based my questioning using the mnemonic: SIQORAAA and and asked for past medical and surgical histories. Family & social history, drug use, occupation, diet, exercise and sleeping habits. When I encountered femlae SP's: I extracted detailed gyn. history and with my male SP's with history of alcohol use, I asked what kind, their consumption and even did the CAGE questions to those whose intake was too much. I also had a phone call case and did the ON CALL IDIOT mnemonic for questioning. I reviewed both USMLE first AID CS and used kaplan notes from a friend who took the live lecture and passed the CS two months ago. I even had mock exams with my husband as a SP in a clinic he works at to simulate the exam. What else can I do to pass this exam?

I faile last yr with same problem.......this doesn't make sense at all. I try again this year

Sounds like you were on the right track. I failed the first time then for the second time around I took the Gold cs prep and passed with flying colors. I had a SP the first time that was located near me and we met up and practiced together, I really thought I would do well. Not the case. The feedback I received while taking the Gold course was invaluable. Just dont give up, it will be easier next time.
edited by on 2/2/2014