Fatigue is one of the broadest presentations in PLAB 2, spanning physical, psychological and lifestyle causes. The examiner wants to see you keep an open mind, screen safely, and not miss either a sinister organic cause or a low mood behind the tiredness.
How to structure it
- Explore the fatigue: onset, pattern, impact on daily life, and what the patient thinks is behind it.
- Screen for organic red flags — weight loss, fevers, night sweats, bleeding.
- Sensitively screen mood, sleep, stress and alcohol.
- Cover relevant systems review, medication and a brief social history.
Common pitfalls
- Anchoring on one cause too early.
- Forgetting to screen mood, or doing it bluntly.
- Missing red flags for serious disease.
Examiners reward a broad but safe approach, sensitive psychological screening, and a sensible plan with clear safety-netting.
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