Master the board step 3

Master the Boards: USMLE Step 3
Case Introduction Screen
The first screen is called the case introduction and provides a 1- or 2-sentence
description of the patient’s chief complaint, the patient’s location at presentation,
and time of day. After reading this screen, click the OK button.
Vital Signs Screen
These initial vital signs are the most important indicator of whether this condition
is acute-emergent or chronic-stable. Review for any abnormalities before
hitting the OK button.
Initial History Screen
The initial history screen gives you a comprehensive description of the history
of present illness, past medical history, family history, social history, and
review of systems. Read this section carefully, as key diagnostic information is
given here. After reading the history of present illness, you should be able to
establish a short differential diagnostic list. Make note of any key features in
the past medical, family, and social history and review of systems that support
or refute your differential diagnosis. At the end of the initial history, click the
OK button; this will mark the end of the prompted section of the case.
(courtesy http://www.usmle.org)
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