Station-Specific OSCE Preparation
OSCE Communication and Teamwork Stations NZ
The current NCNZ registered nurse clinical competence handbook includes an official Communication and teamwork station. These scenarios test how clearly, safely, and empathetically you speak with patients, whanau, and colleagues in a New Zealand care context.
Use this page to understand what this station is testing, how scenarios usually unfold, what commonly loses marks, and how to practise more deliberately before your OSCE.
For broader preparation, connect this station page back to the main NZ OSCE training page, the IQN theory course, the blog, and the pricing page.
This page focuses on one official RN OSCE station area: Communication and teamwork. It is intended as preparation support and does not replace the official NCNZ orientation and OSCE materials.
What this station type usually tests
Introductions, identity checks, consent, and explanation of the task.
Patient-centred communication with empathy, structure, and clear language.
Education, reassurance, and checking understanding before closing.
Example Scenarios
Scenario types you may need to handle
Patient education after a new diagnosis or medication change.
Explaining a procedure and gaining informed consent.
De-escalating distress and showing therapeutic communication.
ISBAR-style handover to another clinician.
Common Mistakes
Mistakes that affect performance
Missing the introduction or failing to confirm patient identity.
Using complex language without checking understanding.
Giving information without showing empathy or inviting questions.
Running out of time because the conversation has no structure.
How To Pass
A stronger way to practise this station
Use a repeatable opening, middle, and closing structure in every scenario.
Practise verbal signposting so the patient knows what is happening.
Use virtual patient or AI role-play to rehearse difficult conversations repeatedly.
Review with feedback and refine tone, pacing, and clarity.
Build this station into a calmer overall study plan.
Use the main OSCE page for the full exam format, the IQN page for the wider pathway, and the blog for supporting articles. If you purchase OSCE Prep, the included 3-month gotoMedics subscription can give you extra communication rehearsal alongside these station reviews.