Abstract
Reviewed by: Daniel J Haley, ST7 Anaesthetics & ICM, Northwest Deanery, Manchester, UK
The formation of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FICM) brought with it new examinations for those wishing to train in ICM. Due to their relatively recent inception though, there are limited resources available to candidates to aid preparation. This book is an excellent study guide to the Final Fellow of the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine (FFICM) OSCE exam and includes an extensive range of example questions with accompanying model answers. The questions are based on trainees’ experiences of the actual exam as well as an FFICM revision course provided by the authors.
There are four main sections, consisting of questions relating to “Data interpretation,” “Equipment,” “Ethics and communication” and “Resuscitation and simulation.” A useful appendix is also provided, mapping each of the questions to the relevant section of the FICM syllabus, thus enabling targeted revision of specific topics. The model answers are detailed and structured with a sample marking scheme provided to allow the reader to gauge their own performance. The book also includes diagrams, radiology images, ECGs and photos in order to accurately reflect the format of the actual exam.
A particularly valuable segment of the book is the introductory chapter, which is written by a current FFICM examiner. He provides his unique insight and advice to trainees preparing to sit the exam, discussing the examination format and also what is expected of candidates.
Overall, this is a well-designed book that would be extremely useful for trainees preparing to undertake the Final FFICM examination. It covers the entire range of the FICM syllabus, in addition to providing invaluable practise in answering the specific style of questions encountered in the exam.