Reflections of a retiring examiner.

OBJECTIVE

This article is a transcript of an invited talk given to the Victorian Branch of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Psychiatrists in Training in February 2008, as part of an annual function designed to assist trainee psychiatrists as they prepare for the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists' clinical examination. Six points of reflection are discussed from the perspective of the examiner. The talk focuses on the Observed Clinical Interview component of the clinical examination as this is where many candidates seem to struggle to meet the required standard.

CONCLUSION

While specific examination preparation is essential, breadth of clinical experience, supervision and an opportunity to think and reflect on one's learning seem to be essential elements in success at these high stakes examinations.