Preparing for an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE): The development of a simulated recording to increase student’s prior knowledge and confidence.

This article examines the development of video recorded material as a preparation for 3rd Year mental health nursing student nurses in the UK undertaking an Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE) of their medicine management skills. Firstly, a discussion of the nature and intention of the OSCE is provided to set the scene. Secondly, a critique of existing strategies to prepare students for OSCEs is set out. Thirdly a description of the Medicines Management OSCE and the development of a preparational DVD is given for readers to consider an as exemplar to prepare students understanding about the OSCE. The intention is to increase their confidence toward a planned examination situation, and as acon sequence therefore reduce stress that may impair performance during the assessment.A final discussion and conclusion offers insights into the increasing importance of the use of technology in preparing and engaging students toward the impending assessment of knowledge and skills in practical assessments such as OSCEs.