Tips:
It is ok to change your answer if you were clearly wrong and suddenly recognize your error.
It is ok to state that you would consult a peer or review a reference text if you don't have the answer, this is much better than spitting out BS.
It is ok to say "I don't know".
75% of the test will be subjects that most well prepped testers will know very well, always stay focused because that other 25% might just present itself towards the end when your more relaxed.
Just assume the second block will be harder, assume one examiner will be much more difficult, assume there will be at least one case scenario you know little or nothing about (when you encounter this speed bump, saying less is more, this will allow the examiner to recognize this absence of knowledge and move through the case quicker. This also allows you to begin the next case, which you will likely be more familiar with).
Basic High Yield Subjects: (review these otherwise you might sound like a CRNA)
1. Official Machine Checkout
2. What are the Standard ASA monitors (don't say "pulse ox, EKG mon., BP cuff, ETCO2, etc..., this is how a CRNA would answer this question).
3. Drawing the most common circuits, drawing the basic machine diagram.
4. Cardiac Clearance based on the most up-to-date guidelines
5. Difficult airway algorithm
6. PFT's
7. PACU discharge criteria
8. Phase II discharge criteria
9. PACU discharge criteria for PT with spinal.
10. ACLS
11. PALS
12. Neonatal resuscitation
13. Extubation criteria
14. LMA indications/CI
15. This is basic stuff that we all know, but the examiner will expect you to verbally communicate this knowledge as if you were a consultant anesthesiologist.
The oral exam is a big performance. You have to put on a good show for the examiners. Content is important but so is presentation. Try to relax and let it flow. Give reasonable answers to what you are asked and there is no way that you can fail. Try to get a handle on your nerves.Work out the night before if that is part of your normal schedule. Just about all of you will pass so don't hurt yourself after the exam. Remember, no one knows everything.
Cambie