Office of Medical Education

Physical Examination

Beginning at the end of their first year of medical school and continuing throughout their residencies, the students are required to perform a full physical examination on a standardized patient who will then rate them on the accuracy of their technique and specific competencies. The Medical Director or a designated physician provides extensive training to the standardized patient for these exams. At the end of approximately sixteen to twenty hours of training, a physician will do reliability testing on the standardized patient to insure accuracy and consistency.

During the physical exam the standardized patient wears a hospital gown and appropriate underwear. Bras are not worn as they prohibit the students from performing certain portions of the examination properly. However, draping techniques are taught to the students prior to the exam, and respect for the patient modesty is highly stressed. The exam includes all aspects of the physical except the breast, pelvic, and rectal portions. The neurological and musculoskeletal sections of the physical involve a battery of maneuvers such as hopping in place, walking in a straight line, bending, and balancing.

The physical exam consists of three sections: the exam itself, scoring by the standardized patient, and a feedback session between the patient and the student. The student is given one hour to complete the physical exam. The patient is then given sufficient time to fill out a check-sheet and make notes about weaknesses and strengths in the student's performance. When the standardized patient has completed the checklist, there is a fifteen-minute feedback session in which the standardized patient reviews the checklist with the student, provides constructive criticism, and demonstration of the proper techniques. It is necessary that these sessions be conducted in a professional manner. The standardized patient must be confident and composed when giving feedback. In some situations, standardized patients may have to deal with challenging students. If this is the case, please contact the course director or administrative director immediately