Some SCA cases are audio-only. This changes the dynamic significantly:
- You cannot see the patient's facial expressions or body language
- You must rely more heavily on verbal cues: tone of voice, hesitation, silence, sighing
- History taking may need to be longer (no visual cues to aid diagnosis)
- Your verbal communication must be even clearer - the patient cannot see you nodding or smiling
- Signpost more explicitly: "I'm going to ask you some specific questions now about..."
- Be alert to silence - it may indicate distress, confusion, or disagreement
⚠ COMMON PITFALL: Do not treat audio cases as "easier" or less important. They test the same domains and carry the same marks. Many candidates underperform on telephone cases because they fail to adapt their communication style.