Physical exam skills are the one thing that cannot be self-taught. It requires someone experienced to confirm or refute your findings. Thus, it is important that someone experienced observes you perform a complete physical examination and this is why we strongly encourage a faculty member to do this at least once during this rotation. (Faculty are aware of this expectation so should not be surprised when you ask them. Many students find the smoothest way to do this is arrange to page the faculty member on a call day once you have finished taking a new patient’s history and are ready to begin the physical examination. You can then present the history to your attending and s/he can watch you perform the physical exam while confirming the key aspects for themselves, since they have to see the patient themselves anyway.) The more times you are observed, the better. The physical exam evaluation form is something for you to print out and give to the faculty member(s) or senior residents who observe you to help them provide you with more specific and constructive feedback. If there is not time for a full exam, you may still use this form or you may want to use the mini-CEX form instead.
Evaluation criteria: See the evaluation form. You do not need to submit the actual evaluation form. It is preferable that you summarize what you learned. Make sure to include the name of the person who observed you and how they rated your performance. Comment specifically on your strengths, weaknesses, and the next step(s) you plan to take to improve your skills.
A) Checklist for Physical Exam
B) Observed physical examinations (for electronic portfolio only)
