Department of Surgery

Introduction Surgical Curriculum Clerkship Structure Surgical Services Daily Activities Course Requirements References Specialty Exposure Ethics Project Evaluations Overview Shelf Exam Oral Exam Professionalism Attending Physicians Clinic Schedule Conference Schedule Shuttle Schedules Contact Us Needlestick Precautions

Surgical Clerkship

Evaluations: Oral Exam

The Oral Exam, also given on the last day of the clerkship, is case-based, meaning students are given clinical scenarios, then expected to ask for appropriate patient data and to formulate a management plan. The exam lasts 20-30 minutes and is usually based on two or three cases. Students are assessed on their fund of knowledge, and their ability to gather and synthesize information to solve the clinical problems. This exam contributes to 10% to students' overall grades.

The following topics are commonly tested*:

  • Colorectal Cancer
  • Breast Cancer
  • Appendicitis
  • Diverticulitis
  • Post-operative complications (fever, hypoxia, hypotension)
  • Biliary disorders
  • Pancreatic masses
  • AAA
  • Lower Extremity Peripheral Vascular disease
  • Evaluation of Trauma patient

*Please note these are the most common topics tested, but the oral exams may include topics not listed here.

Sample Oral Exam Form Used by Faculty (Word Document)
Print Page

    ©2009 The Mount Sinai Medical Center