Top 25 PLAB 2 Common Scenarios You Must Practise Before Your Exam (2026 Guide)
If you are preparing for PLAB 2, one of the most effective strategies is practising high-yield, commonly tested OSCE scenarios. The PLAB 2 exam assesses whether you can practise safely as an FY2 doctor in the NHS, and certain consultation types appear repeatedly.
This guide outlines the most common PLAB 2 scenarios that international doctors should master before sitting the exam.
Why Practising Common Scenarios Matters
PLAB 2 is not random. The exam tests predictable clinical themes such as red flag assessment, counselling, ethical dilemmas, and communication skills. Candidates who practise structured approaches to these scenarios perform significantly better.
High-Yield PLAB 2 History-Taking Stations
- Chest pain assessment (ACS red flags)
- Headache with red flags
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal pain
- Lower back pain
- Palpitations
- Post-menopausal bleeding
- PR bleeding
- Depression assessment
- Suicide risk assessment
In these stations, you must demonstrate structured data gathering, ICE exploration, and safe management planning.
Common PLAB 2 Counselling Scenarios
- Diabetes lifestyle advice
- Hypertension counselling
- Smoking cessation
- Contraception advice
- STI counselling
- Weight management discussion
- Breaking bad news
- Explaining investigation results
These stations test communication clarity, empathy, shared decision-making, and patient-centred explanation.
Ethical & Professional Scenarios
- Confidentiality breach
- Consent issues
- Safeguarding concerns
- Colleague misconduct
- Complaints handling
- Duty of candour
Understanding GMC Good Medical Practice principles is essential for these stations.
Practical Skills Stations
- Venepuncture
- IV cannulation
- Urinary catheterisation
- Basic life support
- Peak flow measurement
Candidates must demonstrate safe technique, correct explanation, and appropriate aftercare advice.
How to Practise These Scenarios Effectively
1. Time Yourself Strictly
Each station lasts 8 minutes. Train your mind to structure consultations efficiently.
2. Focus on Structure, Not Memorisation
Memorised scripts fail under pressure. Develop adaptable frameworks instead.
3. Practise With Feedback
Mock exams with structured feedback significantly improve pass rates. Many candidates only realise their weaknesses during realistic mock simulations.
Final Checklist Before Your PLAB 2 Exam
- Have you practised at least 40–50 full stations?
- Are you confident with ICE in every consultation?
- Can you safety-net clearly in under 30 seconds?
- Do you understand NHS escalation pathways?
- Have you completed at least one full 16-station mock?
Consistent structured practice of common scenarios is the most reliable way to pass PLAB 2 on your first attempt.
Preparing for PLAB 2 soon?
Make sure you practise high-yield scenarios under exam conditions and receive targeted feedback before your exam date.
