Hot Topics- Manned
Explaination station
Explain myringoplasty to a mother RE her child needing the operation
Explain FNE to a patient with examiner in room
Explain the findings of Acoustic Neuroma to patient with examiner in room
Explain the diagnosis of Cholesteatoma - explain PTA findings/otoscopy / principles of management
Explain laryngomalacia to a parent of a child
Explain pharyngeal pouch, implications and management to a patient
Consent
Cholesteatoma surgery
Tonsillectomy
Myringoplasty
Parotidectomy - superficial
Tracheostomy
Adenoidectomy
Grommet insertion
Basic FESS
Septoplasty
Mastoidectomy (rare)
Practice Practice Practice
Books-
History Taking
Epistaxis
Unilateral tonsil swelling
Cholesteatoma
Dizziness
Dysphagia
Examination
FNE and describe findings
Balance examination
Otoscopy
Tracheotomy tubes (identifying different types)
Facial Nerve examination
Breaking Bad News
Low grade laryngeal carcinoma + management (MDT)
Acoustic neuroma
Thyroid carcinoma
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma
How to Prepare for the DOHNS Part B Exam: A Complete Guide for ENT Trainees
The DOHNS Part B exam is a step for ENT trainees and international medical graduates pursuing surgical careers in the UK. This OSCE-style assessment evaluates both clinical knowledge and communication skills across a wide range of ENT topics. In this guide, we’ll break down the structure of the exam, highlight common pitfalls, and share practical tips to help you succeed.
What is DOHNS Part B?
The Diploma in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery (DOHNS) Part B exam is run by the Royal College of Surgeons. It is an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) format, where candidates rotate through multiple stations designed to test:
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Clinical examination skills
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History taking and communication
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Data interpretation
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Knowledge of ENT emergencies and hot topics
Exam Structure
Typically, the DOHNS Part B includes around 11–14 stations, each lasting a few minutes. These may include:
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Otology cases – e.g., cholesteatoma, hearing loss, perforated eardrum
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Rhinology cases – e.g., epistaxis management, nasal polyps, sinusitis
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Head & Neck – e.g., neck lumps, thyroid disorders, cancers
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Communication skills – e.g., breaking bad news, obtaining consent
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Data interpretation – e.g., audiograms, CT/MRI scans, lab results
Common Challenges
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Time Pressure – Candidates often run out of time before completing all aspects of the station.
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Structured Communication – Many trainees forget to use a logical, patient-friendly structure when explaining diagnoses or procedures.
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Data Interpretation – Struggling with audiograms or imaging is a frequent weakness.
Top Tips to Pass DOHNS Part B
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Practice OSCE Scenarios Daily – Rehearse with colleagues or use online resources like EntreVision’s OSCE bank.
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Master the Basics – Examiners reward clear, structured approaches rather than overly complex answers.
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Use Frameworks for Communication – For breaking bad news, use the SPIKES model; for consent, cover benefits, risks, and alternatives.
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Time Management – Practise answering within the allocated station time.
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Mock Exams – Simulate real conditions with timed practice stations to build exam stamina.
Why Use EntreVision?
At EntreVision, we provide ENT trainees with everything they need to prepare for DOHNS Part B:
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Practice questions and answers across otology, rhinology, and head & neck.
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OSCE videos demonstrating history taking and communication skills.
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Mock papers to help you simulate exam conditions.
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Concise notes designed by UK ENT doctors who have sat and passed these exams.
By using structured, exam-focused resources, you’ll walk into your DOHNS exam with confidence.
Conclusion
The DOHNS Part B exam can seem daunting, but with the right preparation strategy, success is within reach. Focus on practice, structure, and time management, and make use of trusted resources to guide your revision.
Ready to take the next step? Explore EntreVision’s OSCE questions, videos, and mock papers today.