Conquer the PMDC NRE with proven strategies – BilalMD

Passing the PMDC NRE exam in Pakistan, now known as the National Residency Examination (NRE), is undoubtedly one of the toughest hurdles for medical graduates. I’ve been through it, and while it took immense time, energy, and a fair share of mistakes, I ultimately succeeded. If I can pass it, you can too! Learn from my experience to make your journey smoother and more efficient.

The NRE is a two-step examination conducted twice a year (and you can attempt it as many times as needed):

• Step 1: Theory (MCQ-based)
• Step 2: Clinical

PMDC NRE Step 1: The Theory Exam

The PMDC NRE Step 1 consists of 200 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to be completed in 3 hours. To pass, you need to score 60% (120 MCQs).

It’s crucial to understand that this exam is concept-based. While past papers can help understand the format and types of questions, don’t expect exact copy-pasted MCQs. Focus on solving multiple-choice questions (MCQs) to build and solidify your concepts.

A significant mistake I made in my initial attempts was not paying attention to the exam weightage criteria. Don’t try to study the entire syllabus with equal intensity. Instead, focus on high-yield topics according to the weightage. I learned this the hard way! My advice is to use resources like First Aid and tailor your study to the specific weightage of each subject.

Here’s the typical breakdown of MCQs and weightage for PMDC NRE Step 1:

Basic Sciences (30% or 60 MCQs)

Clinical Sciences (70% or 140 MCQs)

In my first attempt, I scored only 97 MCQs because I overlooked the weightage, spending too much time on low-weightage subjects and neglecting critical areas like Gynaecology and Paediatrics. Don’t make the same mistake!

Overcoming Challenges and My Breakthrough

After my first failed attempt, I subscribed to a 6-month online course, confident this would be my turning point. To my dismay, I failed again, and the lack of result percentages made it even more frustrating. It was disheartening to see many of my peers pass while I was left behind, especially as a foreign doctor navigating budget constraints, cooking after long classes, and relying on public transport – challenges most Pakistani students don’t face daily.

This experience fueled my determination for my third attempt. I was preparing for the NRE since 2021, right after COVID, during my 7th semester. For this crucial third attempt, I opted for Dr. Sadiq’s subscription. Their prompt and simplifying responses on WhatsApp made a huge difference. They broke down concepts in a month that had troubled me throughout my MBBS!

My biggest mistake in the second attempt was overconfidence. I barely revised in the last month and hardly practiced any MCQs. Please, whatever you do, do not skip revision, even if you feel confident. Prioritize learning high-weightage subjects first, then move to the lower-weightage ones.

Key Subjects to Focus On PMDC NRE Exam

Based on my experience, these subjects are particularly important for NRE Step 1. I’ll guide you on how to approach them, much like how I was guided:

Remember, consistency, strategic studying based on weightage, and thorough revision are your keys to success. You’ve got this!

Below is a list of all the subjects I cover, and made easy for you so you can access them completely free of charge.

1. Neurology
2. Biochemistry
3. Anatomy
4. Surgery
5. ENT
6. Gyne and Obs
7. Pharmacology
8. Opthalmology
9. Microbiology
10. Renal
11. Pulmonology
12. Pediatrics
13. GIT

PMDC NRE Step 2: OSCP

There are a total of 20 stations. Out of these, 3 stations are mandatory to pass, while the remaining are optional.

1. Compulsory Stations

1. Physical Examination
May include any of the following:

• General Physical Examination (e.g., fever, flu, cough, jaundice)
• Cardiovascular Examination (e.g., murmurs)
• Respiratory/Chest Examination
• Neurological Examination (cranial nerves, cerebellum)
• Abdominal Examination (spleen, liver, kidneys)

2. Basic Life Support (BLS)
Demonstration of proper BLS technique and response to emergency scenarios.

3. Pediatrics or Gynecology
Assessment may include common pediatric or gynecological conditions and patient interactions.

2. Additional Stations

4. Counseling
Includes patient-centered communication, lifestyle advice, or dealing with sensitive issues.

5. Radiology

• Fracture identification
• Chest X-ray interpretation

6. Surgical Instruments
Identification and use of common surgical tools.

7. Gynecology
Focused assessment on common gynecological cases.

8. Obstetrics
May involve antenatal care, labor stages, or fetal monitoring.

9. Breaking Bad News
Appropriate communication strategies for delivering serious diagnoses.

10. Consent
Understanding informed consent, including ethical and legal aspects.

11. Laboratory Interpretation
Analysis of common lab tests (CBC, LFTs, RFTs, etc.).

12. ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat)
Common ENT examination and diagnosis skills.

13. Ophthalmology
Eye examination techniques and recognition of common conditions.

14. Dermatology
Identification and description of common skin conditions.

15. Thyroid Examination
Assessment of thyroid gland (inspection, palpation, signs of hypo/hyperthyroidism).

16. Vaccine Identification
Recognizing different vaccines and understanding their indications.