OSCE Physical Examination 3

Question 1

Which technique is used to distinguish ascites from a large ovarian cyst on abdominal examination?

Accepted Answer

Shifting dullness

Answer

Shifting dullness demonstrates fluid that moves with gravity (ascites), while a cyst maintains its position; a cyst also produces resonance at the flanks.

Question 2

When testing cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), which movement specifically tests the upper motor neuron pathway?

Accepted Answer

Raising eyebrows

Answer

Raising the eyebrows (forehead movement) is spared in upper motor neuron lesions because the forehead receives bilateral cortical input.

Question 3

During cardiovascular examination, which pulse character is described as a rapid upstroke and collapse, associated with aortic regurgitation?

Accepted Answer

Collapsing (water-hammer) pulse

Answer

A collapsing (water-hammer) pulse has a rapid rise and sudden collapse, classically associated with aortic regurgitation due to high pulse pressure.

Question 4

A patient has decreased breath sounds, stony dull percussion, and decreased vocal fremitus at the right base. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Right-sided pleural effusion

Answer

Stony dull percussion with decreased breath sounds and decreased vocal fremitus at the lung base indicates fluid in the pleural space.

Question 5

When examining for hepatomegaly, percussion of the liver span reveals the upper border at the 5th intercostal space and lower border 6 cm below the right costal margin. This represents:

Accepted Answer

Mild hepatomegaly

Answer

Normal liver span is approximately 6-12 cm in the mid-clavicular line; extension 6 cm below the costal margin indicates mild hepatomegaly.

OSCE Practice Test

OSCE Practice Test

OSCE Physical Examination 3