Top 10 Mistakes OSCE Candidates Make and How to Avoid Them

Preparing for the UK NMC Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) is a significant milestone for internationally educated nurses pursuing registration in the United Kingdom. This exam goes beyond testing technical skills—it evaluates your ability to provide safe, effective, and patient-centred care in line with UK standards.

While experienced nurses often have the clinical knowledge, many candidates still fall into avoidable traps during the OSCE. Understanding these common mistakes and knowing how to prevent them can make the difference between passing with confidence or facing unnecessary retakes.

Below are the top 10 mistakes OSCE candidates make, along with practical strategies to avoid them.

 

1. Rushing Through Hand Hygiene

Many candidates rush through the process or skip steps. Since infection prevention is a crucial aspect in patient safety, the WHO 7-step handwashing technique should become second nature. Always pause, perform, and verbalise: “I am performing hand hygiene using WHO guidelines".

2. Ignoring the “Introduce & Consent” Protocol

Failing to introduce yourself, check patient identity, or seek consent can lose valuable marks. Use the AIDET framework—Acknowledge, Introduce, Duration, Explanation, Thank you—to demonstrate professionalism and reassure the patient.

3. Poor Time Management

Spending too long on one task often results in incomplete stations. Plan ahead: in a 15-minute station, aim to complete your skill in 12 minutes and leave 3 minutes for review. Ensure thorough knowledge of marking criteria for better understanding of time management for each station.

4. Not Linking Actions to the NMC Code

Performing skills correctly isn’t enough; you must demonstrate awareness of the NMC Code. Narrate your actions by linking them to patient safety, dignity, and confidentiality. For example, “I’m maintaining privacy in line with the NMC Code.”

5. Skipping Allergies & Observations Checks

Overlooking allergies or baseline observations can be a critical error. Make them a priority by mentally repeating: “Allergies and obs first.”

6. Overlooking Documentation

Candidates often forget to sign, date, or complete notes. If time is short, verbally state: “I will now document according to guidelines”, and ensure you complete the documentation before the time runs out.

7. Inadequate Communication with the Patient

Talking to the assessor rather than engaging with the patient is a common pitfall. Use simple language, ask open-ended questions, and actively listen: “Can you tell me how you feel about this process?”

8. Failing to Escalate Concerns

Ignoring red flags, such as abnormal vital signs, can cost you marks. Practise using the SBAR framework (Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation) until escalation becomes second nature.

9. Forgetting Equipment Checks

Using faulty or inappropriate equipment can compromise your performance. Always start by confirming: “I have checked that all equipment is clean, functional, and in date.”

10. Underestimating the Mock Exam

Treating mock exams casually often leads to anxiety on the actual day. Practise under exam conditions—timed stations, PPE, and verbalising every step—to build confidence.

Key Takeaways

• Consistency counts: Repetition helps you stay calm and confident.

• Verbalise your thinking: Examiners can only score what they hear.

• Prioritise safety: When in doubt, escalate concerns and document actions.

Conclusion

Passing the OSCE is not about being flawless—it’s about demonstrating that you can deliver safe, effective, and patient-centred care the UK way. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll walk into the exam room prepared to succeed.

For tailored guidance and hands-on practice, contact Envertiz Academy, specialists in OSCE and CBT training. With expert support and evidence-based teaching, you can boost your chances of first-time success and take the next step in your UK nursing journey.