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ST3 Trauma and Orthopaedic Interview Interactive and Communication Station

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Interactive

This station will be based on a scenario involving communication with a patient. This section of the interview lasts ten minutes.

You will be assessed independently by two interviewers scoring in each of the following domains: Technical Knowledge; Situational Awareness; Judgement Under Pressure; Communication – Information Gathering; Communication – Information Giving.

Scoring

This station is scored out of 50. Interviewers score you out of 10 across five domains:

  • Technical Knowledge
  • Situational Awareness
  • Judgement Under Pressure
  • Communication – Information Gathering
  • Communication – Information Giving

The self-assessment you completed at application adds a further 34 marks, and the four stations plus the self-assessment give a total of 234. See the interview overview for the full scoring matrix.

Top Tips

  • The Interactive Station tends to be what separates the very best candidates. Preparation can be challenging and it is recommended that you look back through your MRCS and medical school communication skills notes.
  • Our Question Bank features a comprehensive guide to structuring and communicating in a way that will score you maximum points.
  • Scenarios tested are designed to be realistic and it is important that you remain calm, employ active listening and try to reach a satisfactory conclusion within the timeframe.
  • Scenarios often fall into “types” of communication skills such as breaking bad news, dealing with an angry relative, dealing with a failing colleague or explaining a diagnosis.
  • Our Interview Course uses scenarios to simulate the Interactive Station and improve your communication skills prior to the real interview.

More interview info

Application OverviewSelf-AssessmentInterview OverviewPortfolio StationClinical StationPrioritisation Station

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Frequently asked questions

What is the interactive (communication) station?

A ten-minute scenario involving communication with a patient, relative or colleague — for example explaining a complication, consenting for a procedure, or handling a difficult conversation. Two interviewers score you independently.

Which domains does the interactive station assess?

Technical Knowledge; Situational Awareness; Judgement Under Pressure; Communication – Information Gathering; and Communication – Information Giving, each out of 10 for a total of 50.

Is there an actor in the interactive station?

The scenario is role-played with a member of the panel or a trained role-player. Treat it as a real consultation: introduce yourself, establish what the person already knows, and check understanding as you go.

How do I score well on communication?

Signpost clearly, avoid jargon, pause to let the other person respond, acknowledge emotion explicitly, and close by summarising and agreeing a plan. Marks are lost far more often for talking over the scenario than for missing a clinical fact.