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Successfully completed MRCEM Primary, the first hurdle towards achieving RCEM membership? Then you may now be preparing for the next step, MRCEM Intermediate SBA. Whether you have already started preparing or are unsure where to begin, this guide will help you plan your studies effectively.
Understand the exam structure
First of all, it is important to understand the MRCEM SBA exam structure in detail. It is a theoretical exam that tests a candidate’s understanding of the wide range of conditions and presentations that may be encountered in the emergency departments.
The exam consists of 180 Single Best Answer (SBA) questions, divided into two papers with 90 questions each. The total duration of the exam is four hours, with two hours allotted to each paper. There will be a one-hour break in between the papers.
The MRCEM SBA exam is aligned with the Specialty Learning Outcomes (SLOs) corresponding to years 1–3 of the 2021 Emergency Medicine Curriculum. The blueprint for the exam includes
- SLO 1: Complex stable patient – 60 questions
- SLO 3: Resuscitate, ACCS LO8 organ failure (excluding major trauma) – 40 questions
- SLO 4: Injured patient – 30 questions
- SLO 5: Paediatric Emergency Medicine – 25 questions
- SLO 6: Procedural skills (ACCS), ACCS LO7 basic anaesthetic care – 10 questions
- SLO 7: Complex or challenging situations – 15 questions
For more details about the topics under each SLO, visit the official MRCEM website.
Effective preparation strategies
- Create a well-organised study plan: Focus more on SLOs that carry higher weight, such as SLO 1 (complex stable patient) and SLO 3 (resuscitate, organ failure), in order to maximise your efforts.
- Set consistent daily goals: Aim for small, achievable targets that help maintain steady progress.
- Incorporate active learning techniques: Use methods like active recall, spaced repetition and solving practice questions to reinforce learning effectively.
- Solve past papers: Familiarise yourself with the exam pattern and frequently asked topics by practicing papers from previous years.
- Take mock exams: Evaluate your preparation and identify areas needing improvement through mock exams.
It is natural to feel overwhelmed while preparing for a challenging exam like the MRCEM SBA. However, with determination and by following these strategies, you can improve your chances of success.
If you think you need extra help with your preparation, consider joining StudyMRCEM courses. Our courses, led by expert mentors and supported by a wealth of resources, hold an impressive pass rate over the years.
To know more about our offerings, contact our team today.
Authored By: Sarath
By : Admin