NMC OSCE Professional Values and Evidence-Based Practice

Question 1

The NMC Code (2018) is structured around four key themes. What are they?

Accepted Answer

Prioritise people, practise effectively, preserve safety, promote professionalism and trust

Answer

Care, compassion, competence, communication

Answer

Assess, plan, implement, evaluate

Answer

Diagnose, treat, monitor, discharge

Question 2

A nurse is asked to perform a clinical skill they have not been trained to do. According to NMC standards, what is the appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Decline to perform the skill and explain that it is outside their scope of competence, then arrange to receive appropriate training

Answer

Attempt the skill as refusal could be seen as insubordination

Answer

Ask a healthcare assistant to perform it instead

Answer

Perform the skill but document that they were not trained

Question 3

What is clinical governance and why is it relevant to nursing practice?

Accepted Answer

A framework through which NHS organisations are accountable for continuously improving the quality and safety of care, encompassing clinical audit, risk management, education, and patient feedback

Answer

A government committee that oversees NHS spending

Answer

The process of obtaining clinical placements for student nurses

Answer

The administrative management of hospital buildings

Question 4

A nurse has completed a research study that shows a new wound dressing significantly reduces healing time. What level of evidence does a single randomised controlled trial (RCT) provide in the evidence hierarchy?

Accepted Answer

Level II — below systematic reviews and meta-analyses of RCTs (Level I) but above cohort studies and case-control studies

Answer

Level I — the highest level of evidence

Answer

Level IV — expert opinion

Answer

Level V — case reports

Question 5

What is revalidation and what must NMC registrants complete to maintain their registration?

Accepted Answer

A process every 3 years requiring 450 practice hours, 35 hours CPD, 5 pieces of practice-related feedback, 5 written reflective accounts, a reflective discussion, and a health and character declaration

Answer

An annual exam on clinical knowledge

Answer

A monthly online assessment

Answer

A single portfolio submission when first registering

Question 6

A newly registered overseas nurse is practising in the UK. What is the purpose of preceptorship and how long does it typically last?

Accepted Answer

A structured period of transition and support (typically 6-12 months) to develop confidence and competence in a new role, with a named preceptor providing guidance

Answer

A one-day induction course

Answer

A formal examination after 2 years

Answer

A period of supervised practice required only for nurses who have made errors