Anaesthesia OSCE has been written as an aid for candidates preparing for the Primary FRCA examination. The second edition of this book has been extensively revised with the addition of new material. In OSCEs, candidates are required to apply their knowledge to answer questions clearly and concisely. This book enables them to practice answering realistic OSCE questions. It encourages them to do so with constructive and supportive feedback from their senior colleagues. The format of this book is well laid out; the questions are followed by a detailed tutorial on that subject. On the whole, it is well presented, concise and full of useful information. The introduction provides a brief but worthwhile discussion of the necessary preparation for OSCEs, with emphasis on frequent practice, and orderly presentation. The book is divided into 14 chapters, covering various stations encountered in the examination. The chapters on 'History Taking' and 'Physical Examination' give a quick, structured and systematic approach to the patient with several examples (e.g. taking history from a patient with thyroid disease, examining the cardiovascular system, examining cranial nerves, etc). The introduction in the chapter on communication skills was excellent, but some of the communication scenarios are rather verbose. Questions 9-16 in this section will certainly give a new perspective not only to the trainee/candidate, but also to the OSCE steering group at The Royal College of Anaesthetists. For instance, one question involves explaining to a trainee anaesthetic technician about application of cricoid pressure in rapid sequence induction; and another requires the candidate to explain to a patient why their tooth was knocked out accidentally during intubation. The resuscitation chapter is well presented according to the Resuscitation Council Guidelines, with algorithms for Basic Life Support and Advanced Life Support. In the anaesthetic equipment chapter, question number seven.
