So I just finished the shelf exam and got rather schnookered last night.
But I will do as well as I can to offer up some advice to my colleagues out there prepping for the shelf.
First, the shelf is not just general surgery information. Most of it is general, but remember to study its various specialties. I had reviewed vascular and onc pretty well, but I didn't really look up thoracic that much or transplant.
So, that being said, also be aware that they will test you on ortho, urology, neurosurg, too. I didn't really know about this coming in, and I think I could have prepared better for it knowing that it was not just going to be general surgery.
Otherwise, there is some medicine on the shelf. There was a ridiculous rheum question, so before taking it, make sure you just peruse some of the basic info out there maybe in pocket med or something like that.
Otherwise, my other advice is just pay attention on rounds to what the team does, and what kind of antibiotics they use, etc. Be an active listener and try to glean as much as possible. Always be asking about preop evaluation and then possible post-op complications.
Good luck to the rest of you.
