School of Medicine,

Dentistry and
Biomedical Sciences
Centre for Medical Education

MEDICAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

YEAR 4
2019-2020
"The Queen's medical graduate is a caring and compassionate doctor who is a critical thinker, problem
solver and reflective practitioner with excellent clinical skills who values, above all else, service to
patients."

1
Contents

Welcome, Dr Dara O’Donoghue, Year 4 Academic Lead ............................................................. 03

Centre for Medical Education (CME) Key Contacts ...................................................................... 04
Contacting Trusts ......................................................................................................................... 05
Semester Dates Year 4 Medical Students .................................................................................... 05
Year 4 Overall Timetable .............................................................................................................. 06
Year 4 Introductory Week Timetable ............................................................................................ 07
MED4012, Ageing & Health, Radiology & Fractures ..................................................................... 08
MED4013 Psychiatry .................................................................................................................... 10
MED4014 Cancer Studies & General Practice.............................................................................. 11
MED4015 Healthcare of Children ................................................................................................. 13
MED4016 Perioperative & Emergency Medicine (POEM) ............................................................ 14
MED4017 Obstetrics & Gynaecology ........................................................................................... 15
MED4020 Personal & Professional Development Portfolio ........................................................... 16
Assessment Overview ................................................................................................................. 16
Points Based System (PBS) for Students holding Tier 4 visas ..................................................... 18
Preparing for Year 5 2020 - 2021 ................................................................................................. 19
Additional Information ................................................................................................................... 20

All information contained in this handbook is correct at time of printing.

Any subsequent changes will be made to the online version available medical education portal
www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

2
 WELCOME

Dr Dara O’Donoghue
Year 4 Academic Lead

Dear Student

This handbook provides an overview of the Year 4 teaching programme, with an overall
timetable for Year 4 and a summary for each module. Year 4 builds on the knowledge and
skills you have acquired during the first three years of the programme. The emphasis is on
direct patient contact, involving history-taking, examination of patients and basic clinical
procedures. By the end of this year you will have covered all the clinical specialties prior to
undertaking your clinical elective and entering Final Year.

This handbook should be used in conjunction with the Undergraduate Medical Student
Handbook Years 1 - 5
https://www.med.qub.ac.uk/Portal/docs/undergraduate_medicine_handbook.pdf

Students are also advised to regularly check information relating to Year 4 on Queen's Online, on
the medical education portal and the e-noticeboard www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

I look forward to meeting all of you during the academic year.

Dr Dara O’Donoghue
Year 4 Academic Lead
Chair, Year 4 Teaching Committee

3
CENTRE FOR MEDICAL EDUCATION (CME) KEY CONTACTS

Whitla Medical Building (WMB)

Clinical Skills Education Centre, Medical Biology Centre (MBC)
Mulhouse Building, Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH)

Reception, Whitla Medical Building: Tel: 028 9097 2450 Email: medicaled@qub.ac.uk

Medical Education Portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

Key Staff for Year 4

Curriculum Academic Lead
Curriculum Administrator
Curriculum Manager
Assessment Academic Lead
Assessment Manager
Examinations Officer
Student Support Lead
Student Support & Guidance
Officer
Portfolio Academic Lead
Portfolio Administrator
Staff Student Consultative
Committee (SSCC) –
Co-Chair
Quality & Standards
Manager
Disability Lead
Deputy Disability Lead
Dr Dara O’Donoghue d.odonoghue@qub.ac.uk
Miss Cathleen Agnew c.agnew@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2208
Mrs Linda McGuinness l.mcguinness@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2239
Dr Ciaran Mulholland c.c.mulholland@qub.ac.uk
Mrs Carolanne Smith c.smith@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2452
Mrs Marie Brooks m.brooks@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2439
Mr Ian Walsh i.walsh@qub.ac.uk
Mrs Perpetua Lewis p.lewis@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2453
Dr Ciaran Mulholland c.c.mulholland@qub.ac.uk
Miss Cathleen Agnew c.agnew@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2208
Professor Michael Shields m.shields@qub.ac.uk
Mr Nasser Amin n.amin@qub.ac.uk 028 9097 2438
Dr Paul Hamilton paul.hamilton@qub.ac.uk
Dr David Bell d.bell@qub.ac.uk

Director, Centre for Medical Education Dr Neil Kennedy

Associate Director for Curriculum and Quality Management Ms Mairead Boohan
Associate Director for Student Affairs Dr Mark Harbinson
Academic Lead for Assessment Dr Seamus McAleer
Administrative Manager, Centre for Medical Education Mrs Bernie McKevitt

Other Key Contacts:

Occupational Health Email: occhealth@qub.ac.uk Tel: 028 9097 5520
University Health Service http://www.universityhealthcentreatqueens.co.uk/
Advice SU http://www.qubsu.org/AdviceSU/

Student Guidance (Counselling/Disability/ http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/

Student Records/International Student
Support)
Accommodation http://www.stayatqueens.com/
Information Services (Library/Computing) http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/InformationServices/

4
CONTACTING TRUSTS

Each Health and Social Care Trust has a Sub-Deanery structure. Sub-Deans have overall
responsibility for the organisation and management of undergraduate medical education in
Trusts. Information about the Sub-Dean for each Trust can be found below. Sub-Deans are
supported by an administrative team. Information about staff contact details for each Trust can
be found on the Medical Education Portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

A Handbook for each Trust is also available.

Trust Sub-Dean/ Administrative Support

Acting Sub-Dean
Belfast Trust Dr Gareth Riddell Emma Johnston
Emma.johnston@belfasttrust.hscni.net
Northern Trust Dr Ronan Cunningham Gail Kernohan
gail.kernohan@northerntrust.hscni.net
Southern Trust Dr Mae McConnell Kelly Wylie
Kelly.wylie@southerntrust.hsni.net
South Eastern Dr Niall Leonard Lee Ann Irvine
Trust Lee-ann.irvine@setrust.hscni.net
Western Trust Dr Sandra McNeill Sinead Doherty
Sinead.doherty@westerntrust.hscni.net

SEMESTER DATES YEAR 4 2019/2020

Week 1 Introductory Week Wednesday 21 August – Thursday 22 August 2019

Weeks 2 – 18 Teaching Tuesday 27 August – Friday 20 December 2019

2 Weeks Christmas Vacation Monday 23 December – Friday 03 January 2020

Weeks 19 – 33 Teaching Monday 06 January – Thursday 9 April 2020

1 Week & 1 day Easter Vacation Friday 10 April – Friday 17 April 2020

Weeks 34 – 37 Teaching Monday 20 April – Friday 22 May 2020

Weeks 38 – 40 Revision & Monday 25 May – Friday 12 June 2020

Assessment

Other Holidays
Monday 26 August 2019 (Hospital only) = Bank Holiday
Tuesday 17 March 2020 = St Patrick’s Day
Friday 08 May 2020 = May Day Bank Holiday

5
Year 4 Overall Timetable for 2019/20

6
 Year 4 Introductory Week Timetable: Wednesday, 21 & Thursday, 22 August 2019
Venue: Medical Biology Centre / Lecture Theatre 1 (MBC/LT1)

YEAR 4 INTRODUCTORY SESSIONS: VENUE: MBC/LECTURE THEATRE 1 (MBC/LT1)

WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST 2019

Time Title Presenter Venue
08.30-09.00 REGISTRATION MBC FOYER MBC/LT1
SESSION 1 - WELCOME Chair: Dr Dara O'Donoghue
09.00-09.20 Welcome Dr Neil Kennedy MBC/LT1
09.20-09.35 Introduction to Year 4 Dr Dara O'Donoghue MBC/LT1
09.35-09.50 Medical Student Professionalism Dr Neil Kennedy MBC/LT1
09.50-10.00 Tour of the Year 4 Portal Ms Daria Casement MBC/LT1
PREPARATION FOR YEAR 4 MODULES
10.00-10.10 Obstetrics & Gynaecology Dr Inez Cooke MBC/LT1
10.10-10.20 Healthcare of Children Dr Dara O'Donoghue MBC/LT1
10.20-10.30 Radiology Dr Jan O'Neill MBC/LT1
10.30 -10.40 Perioperative & Emergency Medicine (POEM) Dr Aoife Byrne MBC/LT1
10.40-10.50 Cancer Studies Dr Aidan Cole MBC/LT1
10.50-11.00 General Practice Dr Helen Reid MBC/LT1
11.00-11.30 BREAK
11.30-11.40 Ageing & Health Dr Enda Kerr MBC/LT1
11.40-11.50 Fractures Mr David Kealey MBC/LT1
11.50-12.00 Psychiatry Dr Julie Anderson MBC/LT1
12.00-12.05 Absence Policy Dr Dara O'Donoghue MBC/LT1
SESSION 2 - STUDENT SUPPORT AND ASSESSMENT Chair: Dr Dara O'Donoghue
12.05-12.15 QUB Support Services - Student Guidance Mr John Finnigan MBC/LT1
12.25-12.40 Generic Skills Training e.g. Resilience training/Mind your mood Dr Julie Anderson MBC/LT1
12.40-1.00 Assessment/OSCE Prep/Portfolio Dr Ciaran Mulholland MBC/LT1
1.00-2.00 LUNCH PROVIDED BY BMSA MBC FOYER FOYER
SESSION 3 - YEAR 4 QUALITY ASSURANCE Chair: Professor Michael Shields
2.00-2.10 Year 4 Staff Student Consultative Committee Professor Michael Shields MBC/LT1
2.10-2.40 Feedback/Evaluation of Teaching - Raising Concerns Professor Michael Shields MBC/LT1
SESSION 4 - FINAL YEAR ELECTIVE INFORMATION Chair: Mr Ian Walsh
Attendance at ALL Elective lectures is COMPULSORY
2.40-2.55 Pastoral Support Mr Ian Walsh MBC/LT1
2.55-3.25 QUB Elective Procedures/Health & Safety Guidelines Mr Ian Walsh MBC/LT1
3.25-3.40 Final Year Student Perspective on Elective Ms M. Lambert/Mr M. Rainey MBC/LT1
3.40-4.00 Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) Dr Benita McCarthy MBC/LT1
4.00-5.00 The BMSA will arrange a range of organisations to speak at this session BMSA President MBC/LT1
i.e. medical protection, Elective organisations, banks and travel.

THURSDAY 22 AUGUST 2019

Time Title Presenter Venue
09.30-10.00 REGISTRATION MBC FOYER MBC/LT1
SESSION 1 - CAREER PLANNING Chair: Professor M-F McMullin
10.00-10.20 Career Planning Professor Mary-Frances McMullin MBC/LT1
10.20-10.40 Situational Judgement Test (SJT) Dr Suneil Jain MBC/LT1
10.40 -11.00 Clinical Academic Training Programme Professor Michael Shields MBC/LT1
11.00-11.30 BREAK
11.30-12.00 Foundation Training Programme Dr Lorraine Parks MBC/LT1
12.00-12.30 Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) & Kardexes Dr Richard Plumb MBC/LT1
12.30 -1.00 Patient Safety Dr Jackie McCall MBC/LT1
1.00-2.30 LUNCH
SESSION 2 - SIGNPOSTING - "Looking back - signposting the way ahead" Chair: Dr Ciaran O'Gorman
2.30-3.00 Microbiology Dr Ciaran O'Gorman MBC/LT1
3.00-3.30 Dermatology Dr Emma Mack MBC/LT1
3.30-3.50 Degree Plus (continuation of "Career Planning") Ms Diane Masson MBC/LT1

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MED4012 AGEING & HEALTH/ RADIOLOGY/ FRACTURES (6 weeks)
Academic Coordinator for Ageing and Health: Dr Enda Kerr
Academic Coordinator for Radiology: Dr Janice O’Neill
Academic Coordinator for Fractures: Dr Neil Heron
Administrative Coordinator: Miss Claire Watson, Claire.Watson@qub.ac.uk Tel: 028 9097 5790
Contact Point: CME, Ground Floor, Whitla Medical Building

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 6 week course consists of 1 week of combined Ageing and Health, Radiology and Fractures
lectures, followed by 3 weeks of clinical attachment in Ageing and Health (which incorporates 1 day of
clinical attachment in Radiology), followed by 4 days of clinical attachment in Fractures (which alternates
with 4 days of Self Directed Learning).

The compulsory Student Drug Project presentations will take place on the last Friday of Week 5 or 6 and
a combined Single Best Answer online formative assessment (for learning) must be completed before
the end of week 6. Each specialty will be examined at the end of year OSCEs and written exam papers.

The Study Guides, lectures and other learning resources for each specialty will be available on-line via
the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal. Fractures resources will be available on
Queen’s Online.

Students will be required to attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by
the programme of study. For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum
attendance of 75% will be expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

Week Activity Location

1 Ageing & Health, Radiology & Fractures RVH, Mulhouse
Lectures
2 Clinical Attachment Ageing & Health Various hospitals across NI
3 Clinical Attachment Ageing & Health (including Various hospitals across NI
1 day of clinical attachment in Radiology)
4 Clinical Attachment Ageing & Health Various hospitals across NI
5 (Mon-Thurs) Group 1 – Clinical Attachment Fractures RVH/Ulster/Craigavon/Altnagelvin
Group 2- Self Directed Learning
6 (Mon-Thurs) Group 1- Self Directed Learning
Group 2- Clinical Attachment Fractures RVH/Ulster/Craigavon/Altnagelvin
6 (Wed-Fri) Online MCQ
(Ageing & Health, Fractures and Radiology)
6 (Friday) Groups A + B Student Drug Presentations RVH, Mulhouse
Ageing & Health

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue

E Tuesday 27 August 2019
F Monday 07 October 2019
D Monday 18 November 2019
B Monday 13 January 2020
C Monday 24 February 2020
A Monday 06 April 2020
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH
8.30am – Seminar Rm 1/OG.007, Clinical Science A, RVH

8
IN COURSE ASSESSMENT

Summative (Pass/Fail) Requirements

Student logbook Satisfactory completion of essential and core

competencies, assessments and attendance in
Ageing and Health
Satisfactory completion of Radiology skills and
attendance record
Satisfactory completion of Fractures skills and
attendance record

Lecture series Satisfactory attendance as explained in log book

Formative Requirements

MCQ self-assessment single best answer (SBA) Completion of formative assessment

format (combined Radiology, Ageing and Health
and Fractures questions)
Available on-line, with feedback provided after
each question

9
 MED4013 PSYCHIATRY (6 weeks)
Academic Coordinator: Dr Ciaran Mulholland
Administrative Coordinator: Miss Claire Watson, Claire.Watson@qub.ac.uk Tel: 028 9097 5790
Contact Point: CME, Ground Floor, Whitla Medical Building

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 6 week course consists of 1 week of seminars on the background principles of psychiatry and core
knowledge about the major disease groups this is delivered at QUB. Students then spend almost 5
weeks on attachment to hospitals for clinical experience during which time they must complete a clinical
folder. There are a further 3 days of seminars during this period.

The Study Guide will be available on-line via the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue

C Tuesday 27 August 2019
B Monday 07 October 2019
A Monday 18 November 2019
F Monday 13 January 2020
E Monday 24 February 2020
D Monday 06 April 2020
8.30am – Room 02/002 Medical Biology Centre
9.30am – Room 01/002 Medical Biology Centre
9.30am – Room 01/002 Medical Biology Centre
9.30am – Room 01/002 Medical Biology Centre
9.30am – Room 01/002 Medical Biology Centre
9.30am – Room 01/002 Medical Biology Centre

In addition to in course assessment, students will be required to:

 Attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by the programme of
study. For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75%
will be expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT

Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements

Clinical Experience Record
Formative
MCQ assessment based on single best answer
(SBA) questions at the end of the final week.
Delivered through an interactive tutorial with
immediate feedback.
Satisfactory completion of Clinical
Experience Record, including
completion of compulsory in-course
work-based assessments.
Requirements
Completion of formative assessment.

10
MED4014 CANCER STUDIES / GENERAL PRACTICE (6 weeks)

CANCER STUDIES (2 weeks)

Academic Coordinator: Dr Aidan Cole
Deputy Coordinator: Dr Seamus McAleer
Administrative Coordinator: Miss Claire Watson, Claire.Watson@qub.ac.uk Tel: 028 9097 5790
Contact Point: CME, Ground Floor, Whitla Medical Building

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 2 week course comprises an integrated schedule of lectures, tutorials, clinical teaching and
attachments over 2 weeks, with a formative assessment on the final day.

The Study Guide will be available on-line via the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue

F Tuesday 27 August 2019 8.45am – Room OG/120 Medical Biology Centre

D Monday 07 October 2019
E Monday 18 November 2019
C Monday 10 February 2020
A Monday 23 March 2020
B Monday 11 May 2020
8.45am – Room 01/003 Medical Biology Centre
8.45am – Room 01/003 Medical Biology Centre
8.45am – Room 01/003 Medical Biology Centre
8.45am – Room 01/003 Medical Biology Centre
8.45am – Room 01/003 Medical Biology Centre

In addition to in course assessment, students will be required to:

 Attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by the programme of
study. For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75%
will be expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT

Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements

Student logbook
Formative
MCQ assessment based on single best answer
(SBA) questions.
Delivered through an interactive tutorial on the
final day of the element, using Turning Point for
student response, with feedback after each
question.
Satisfactory completion by obtaining signature or
stamp of the lecturer for each entry in the
logbook
Requirements
Completion of formative assessment.
Evidenced by having this entry signed off in the
logbook

11
GENERAL PRACTICE (4 weeks)
Academic Coordinator: Dr Helen Reid
Administrative Coordinator: Ms Cathleen Agnew, c.agnew@qub.ac.uk Tel: 028 9097 2208
Contact Point: CME, Ground Floor, Whitla Medical Building

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 4 week course comprises of 1 week of lectures based in Dunluce Health Centre followed by a 3
week clinical attachment in a designated General Practice in Northern Ireland.

Study guides will be available on-line via the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal
A Logbook & Experience booklet will be available on the first day of the course.

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue

F Monday 09 September 2019 9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC

D Monday 21 October 2019
E Monday 02 December 2019
C Monday 13 January 2020
A Monday 24 February 2020
B Monday 06 April 2020
9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC
9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC
9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC
9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC
9.00am – Seminar Room 1, 4th Floor, Dunluce HC

In addition to in course assessment students will be required to:

 Attend one CCTV session

 Satisfactorily complete clinical Logbook & Experience booklet including 2 Mini CEXs and STAT
presentation
 Attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by the programme of
study. For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75%
will be expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT

Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements

Student logbook Satisfactory completion of logbook and clinical
experience record, including completion of compulsory
in-course work-based assessments.
Formative Requirements
MCQ assessment based on single best Completion of formative assessment.
answer (SBA) questions.

12
 MED4015 HEALTHCARE OF CHILDREN (6 weeks)
Academic Coordinator Dr Dara O’Donoghue
Administrative Coordinator: Mrs Anne McGuinness, a.mcguinness@qub.ac.uk
Tel: 028 9097 6402 Contact Point: CME, 1st Floor, Mulhouse Building, RVH

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 6 week course comprises of 1 week of core teaching, which includes many interactive sessions and
completion of on-line learning activities. Students will be based in Belfast for this teaching week. This is
followed by a clinical attachment in RBHSC or other hospitals for 4 weeks and 4 days with a formative
assessment on the last Friday of the module. Students are required to attend both core teaching and
clinical attachment.

Study guides will be available on-line via the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue

B Tuesday 27 August 2019
A Monday 07 October 2019
C Monday 18 November 2019
E Monday 13 January 2020
D Monday 24 February 2020
F Monday 06 April 2020
9.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 1 & 2
10.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 2 & 3
10.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 1 & 2
10.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 2 & 3
10.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 2 & 3
10.00am / Elliott Dynes Unit, RVH – Lecture Rooms 1 & 2

In addition to in course assessment students will be required to:

 Attend 1 week of core teaching in Belfast - lectures and practicals

 Satisfactorily complete a Healthcare of Children Student Diary (log, core competences, reflective
commentary and Mini-CEX)
 Attend high fidelity (SimBaby) simulation session
 Attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by the programme of
study. For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75%
will be expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT

Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements

Student clinical folder Completion of all compulsory items – log, core
competencies, reflective commentary and
Mini-CEX
Attend SimBaby session
SimBaby
Formative Requirements
MCQ assessment based on SBA Completion of formative assessment.
question set.

13
 MED4016 PERIOPERATIVE & EMERGENCY MEDICINE (6 weeks)
Academic Coordinator: Dr Marianne Fitzgerald
Emergency Medicine Lead: Dr Aoife Byrne
Administrative Coordinator: Mrs Gillian Luke csec-secretary@qub.ac.uk
Tel: 028 9097 2736
Contact Point: CSEC, 2nd Floor, Medical Biology Centre

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 6-week course commences with module induction on the first day of the course. This is compulsory,
as all students should receive instruction and have had experience handling sharps and practising
clinical skills before entering the clinical environment.

The clinical attachment consists of 3 weeks Emergency Medicine and 3 weeks Perioperative Medicine.
Students return to Belfast for a 2-day POEM Life Support (LS) course and a half day Interprofessional
Education (IPE) simulation session with UG nursing students.

The module overview day is held on the final day of the module. A Formative Assessment is conducted
during module overview using audience response software.

Students are required to attend core teaching and the clinical attachments and to complete the logbook
provided. Study material is available at each base hospital and on the Medical Education Portal for both
Perioperative and Emergency Medicine.

Students will be given the Study Guide and Logbook on the first day of the attachment. This is also
available on the Medical Education Portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal.

All course material including information on placements and allocations will be available via the portal
www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal.

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course Time/Venue
D Tuesday 27 August 2019 9.00am / MBC/02/003
E Monday 07 October 2019 9.00am / MBC/02/003
F Monday 18 November 2019 9.00am / MBC/02/003
A Monday 13 January 2020 9.00am / MBC/02/003
B Monday 24 February 2020 9.00am / MBC/01/003
C Monday 06 April 2020 9.00am / MBC/02/003

In addition to in course assessment, students will be required to:

 Satisfactorily complete the POEM logbook.

 Attend all scheduled sessions and other forms of instruction as defined by the programme of
study.
 For students experiencing genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75% will be
expected. For all other students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT
Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements

Student logbook Pass/Fail

POEM Life Support (LS) course OSCE

Pass/Fail
Formative Requirements

MCQ assessment based on SBA questions. Completion of formative assessment.

14
 MED4017 OBSTETRICS & GYNAECOLOGY (6 weeks)
Academic Coordinator: Dr Inez Cooke
Administrative Coordinator: Mrs Anne McGuinness, a.mcguinness@qub.ac.uk
Tel: 028 9097 6402
Contact Point: Centre for Medical Education,1st Floor, Mulhouse Building, RVH

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
This 6 week course comprises 3 days of core teaching at QUB (Introductory and Department Study
Days). The remainder of the course takes place in the base hospital to which the students are attached
(5 weeks and 2 days).

Introduction day to include: review of anatomy, pathology and physiology and clinical skills sessions in
obstetrics and gynaecology examinations on trainers; history taking with simulated patients and
management of a patient on Delivery suite.

Department Study Day (mid-point) to include: review of subspecialty clinical areas not covered in some
peripheral hospitals including uro-gynaecology, gynaecological oncology, reproductive medicine,
materno-fetal medicine; clinical skills sessions in obstetric and gynaecological emergencies.

Department Study Day (last day of module) to include: review of Sexual and Reproductive Health,
Genito-urinary medicine and Sexual Violence.

Throughout the course there will be regular teaching sessions in obstetrics and gynaecology at the base
unit with one clinical session in Genito-Urinary Medicine and one in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Teaching at the base hospital is supported by 40 online videos and lectures and 17 interactive case
scenarios which will allow you to self assess your progress. www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

Study guides, reading lists and curriculum (the National RCOG undergraduate curriculum) will be
available on-line via the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

First Day Reporting Details

GROUP First Morning of Course
A Tuesday 27 August 2019
C Monday 07 October 2019
B Monday 18 November 2019
D Monday 13 January 2020
F Monday 24 February 2020
E Monday 06 April 2020
Time/Venue
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre
8.30am/Room 01-307 Medical Biology Centre

In-Course Assessment requirements:

 Complete the Obstetrics & Gynaecology Student Clinical Diary (including completion of the online
Formative Assessment). www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal
 Attend all scheduled sessions as defined by the programme of study. For students experiencing
genuine difficulties e.g. illness, a minimum attendance of 75% will be expected. For all other
students, attendance at 100% is normally required.

IN COURSE ASSESSMENT
Summative (Pass/Fail ) Requirements
Student Clinical Diary Completion of all compulsory items, both
progress forms and attendance as
specified in the student guide and by
university
Formative Requirements
SBA assessment based on SBA question set. Completion of formative assessment.
Evidenced by having this entry
completed in the Student Clinical Diary

15
 MED4020 PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PORTFOLIO
Academic Coordinator: Dr Ciaran Mulholland
Administrative Coordinator: Miss Cathleen Agnew, c.agnew@qub.ac.uk
Contact Point: Centre for Medical Education, Ground Floor, Whitla Medical Building

INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENTS
A reflective portfolio must be completed during the academic year. Completing this portfolio will provide
you with an opportunity to evaluate your performance and continue to build up evidence of your skills and
activities in preparation for the completion of your foundation application form and beyond.

You will use the Undergraduate Medical electronic Portfolio ‘UMeP’ and complete your portfolio according
to the Study Guide ‘Requirements and Instructions’ which will be available within the UMeP throughout
the year. This document will also be emailed to your Queen’s email address at the start of the academic
year. You must ensure you meet with your portfolio tutor once, per semester, to have your portfolio
reviewed and receive formative feedback. A brief introduction to the portfolio will be given during your
introductory week at the beginning of the academic year.

ePortfolio Website: www.nhseportfolios.org

Portfolio Assessment

Summative assessment of this module will consider the completeness of your portfolio in relation to the
requirements set and the quality of your entries. Your portfolio will be assessed before the end of the
academic year, enabling students who fail to gather information which may be helpful for remediation
during their remaining clinical attachments. The date for assessment will be March with the precise date
being provided in the ‘Requirements and Instructions’ document. You will receive additional guidance
and reminders where necessary to your Queen’s email account from the academic coordinator.

ASSESSMENT OVERVIEW
Year 4 Academic Assessment Lead: Dr Ciaran Mulholland
e-mail c.c.mulholland@qub.ac.uk
Year 4 Deputy Academic Assessment Lead: Dr Inez Cooke
Contact point: Progress & Assessment Office, WMB
e-mail: PAO@qub.ac.uk

The 4th year examinations take place at the end of the academic year and consist of:

 MED4022 – 2 papers of MCQ format comprising single best answer (SBA) questions

 MED4021 – OSCE examination

Written Paper 100% (MED4022):

There are 2 papers of SBA questions each lasting 2 hours. Each paper comprises of 80 questions and
students must achieve the standard-set pass mark for papers 1 & 2 combined to pass the assessment.

The questions will be blueprinted across the subjects for the year; the number of questions for each
module will be approximately proportionate to the duration of the module.

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OSCE 100% (MED4021)

The OSCE examination consists of 14 active stations (run over two days, each day having 7 assessed
and 2 rest stations). Each station will last for 6 minutes with an additional 1 minute between each station
to move and read the student instructions for the next station. There will be a warning bell 1 minute
before the end of each station. In some stations students will be asked 1 or 2 questions requiring a brief
response (usually at 5 minutes).

Stations will assess history-taking, examination, diagnosis, communication, data interpretation,

management plans, presentation, simple prescribing (including IV fluids) and professionalism. You may
be asked to explain a clinical issue or treatment to a patient. The stations will reflect common conditions
that students are expected to encounter on the wards and lectures. Station difficulty will vary.

All the specialties taught in 4th year will be contributing in some form to the overall assessment. No
breakdown is given for the proportion of stations allocated to each specialty, but students should realise
that there is significant overlap between specialties and the larger specialties are likely to have more
stations.

All equipment required will be provided. Some of the stations will involve simulated patients. Please
note that some stations will require students to verbalise as they examine the patient or to summarise
information.

Students should read the student instructions carefully and ensure they fully understand what is
required before starting the station.

To complete 4th year you must have:

1. Passed all summative assessments for each module

2. Completed all formative assessments as detailed for each module
3. Passed the integrated OSCE (MED4021) examination
4. Passed the integrated written paper (MED4022)
5. Passed the Portfolio (MED4020)

During Semester 1 you will be sent an assessment overview document which will include
the passing requirements for all modules. Students should also consult the programme
specification document which will include regulations and progress rules
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/AcademicAffairs/ProgrammeSpecifications/

You should read all relevant sections and in particular make sure you are aware of the examination
regulations

Please note: Examination dates are not confirmed by the University until closer to the examination period.

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Tutorial Scheme
Points Based System (PBS) for Student holding Tier 4 visas
UK Visa and Immigration (UKVI) requires Sponsors, to record, the academic engagement of
students who hold a Tier 4 visa and to report if students fail to engage with their academic
studies or withdraw from the course.

Monitoring Procedures within the Centre for Medical Education

The Centre for Medical Education is required to monitor student attendance every 2 weeks.

Students monitored under the Points Based System will receive an Attendance Form by email
during the first week of every month. This will give the TWO required monitoring dates for the
month. Students are required to return the signed and dated form to CME by (normally) the 28th
of each month. This form should be completed and signed by the student and approved, signed
and dated by a member of academic or clinical staff who can confirm attendance on the dates
listed on the attendance form (placement supervisor, module coordinator, lecturer, portfolio
tutor). Non submissions will be reported to International Student Support Office, and persistent
failure to return forms will result in a referral to the Professionalism Committee.

Please note PBS monitoring is in addition to any other sign-ins at educational/clinical sessions.

Absence Notification Forms must be completed and submitted to the Centre for Medical
Education if you intend to travel outside Northern Ireland (including travel to the rest of the
United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland), or if a temporary/permanent withdrawal from study is
required.

Further detailed information is available in the Undergraduate Medical Student Handbook Years
1-5
https://www.med.qub.ac.uk/Portal/docs/undergraduate_medicine_handbook.pdf

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 Preparations for Year 5 20/21 which must be carried out in
Year 4
YEAR 5 ELECTIVE

Students will undertake their clinical electives in the period: Mon 22 June 2020 – Fri 31 July 2020. Students
must adhere strictly to these dates as the dates have been chosen to coincide with the release of the 4th
year exam results and subsequent meetings with students, remedial teaching and resits. If you do not
fulfil your 4th year requirements you will not be permitted to enter Final Year.

You must have complied with the following pre-elective requirements prior to undertaking your elective:

 Arranged elective clinical placement(s) of maximum 6 weeks, either overseas or in the UK.
Please note that all 6 weeks must be spent on a clinical attachment.
 Completed the online QUB elective registration form and submitted all pre-elective paperwork,
including:
 student elective agreement form
 risk assessment form
 registered for post-elective TB screening (if required and as indicated by WHO guidelines)
 registered for a PEP (HIV) kit if your risk assessment indicates that it is not provided by your host
 written confirmation from each host institution. Closing dates will be set for submission of pre-
elective forms (April/May)
 Read the health and safety guidelines and follow instructions regarding precautions related to
overseas electives.

You must have complied with the following post- elective requirements by the deadline indicated:

 Supervisor Report (Tues 1 September 2020 to be confirmed)

 Elective Report (Tues 1 September 2020 to be confirmed)
 Elective Feedback Form (Tues 1 September 2020 to be confirmed)
 Completed post-elective TB screening during September-November 2020 (if required and as
indicated by WHO guidelines)

Detailed information is available online on the medical education portal www.med.qub.ac.uk/portal

Students can access the Elective pages via the module link on both the Year 4 and Year 5
homepages. These pages provide useful information and advice on planning, funding, insurance and
health and safety. All of the relevant QUB forms can be downloaded under the link ‘Key Information
and Forms’.

It is advisable for students to begin applying for elective placements as early as possible and to seek the
advice of their own GP well in advance regarding travel vaccinations and immunization at an early stage.If
your own GP is unable to advise you and/or provide travel vaccination/immunization, then you may need
to source this service from a dedicated Travel Clinic, such as is provided by Boots or Kingsbridge Private
Hospital.

Please note: Students spending 4 weeks or more of their elective in a country with a high rate of TB (as
indicated by WHO guidelines) will be required to undergo mandatory post-elective TB screening. This
will be arranged in association with QUB Occupational Health. The Electives Module Administrative
Coordinator will arrange this and will notify students of arrangements in advance.

If you have any queries please contact:

Electives Coordinator: Mr Ian K Walsh

Centre for Medical Education, Mulhouse, RVH
i.walsh@qub.ac.uk
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Administrative Coordinator: Anne McGuinness
electivesmed@qub.ac.uk

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
In conjunction with this Medical Student Handbook for Year 4 it is essential that students access the
Undergraduate Medical Student Handbook Years 1 – 5 on the portal
https://www.med.qub.ac.uk/Portal/docs/undergraduate_medicine_handbook.pdf for detailed
information on the following:

Absences
Accident Reporting
Attendance
Bullying and Harassment
Bursaries
Careers
Clinical Academic Training Programme
Clinical Allocations
Code of Practice for Medical Students in Hospitals and Other Clinical Environments
Consequences of Serious Misconduct
Educational Performance Measurement
Erasmus
Examinations
Exposure Prone Procedures
Fitness to Practise
General Conduct of Medical Students
Health of Students & Patients
Hospital Placements, Accommodation, IT Facilities & Transport
Indemnity
Intercalated Degrees
Intimate Examination Guidelines
Late Submission of Course Work
Medals and Prizes
Medicine Staff Student Consultative Committee (MSSCC)
Options for Withdrawal/Transfer
Overview of Undergraduate Medical Curriculum Years 1 - 5
Patient Safety
Plagiarism
Police Checks
Postgraduate Study and Career Prospects
Professional Behaviour: What the guidance from the GMC Says
Quality Assurance
Raising Concerns
Regulations
Situational Judgement Test (SJT)
Staff Student Consultative Committee (SSCC)
Student Support and Guidance
Study Skills Resources
Summer Studentships
Supplementary Examinations
Use of Social Networking Sites and Other on-line Media

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