At SolRx, we recently hosted a live Zoom info session to guide pharmacy candidates on what to expect when preparing for the PEBC MCQ Qualifying Exam. Led by our expert faculty, including Dr. Farah, Dr. Parmeet, Parag, Aarav, and Dr. Hye-Yeong, the session provided valuable insights into exam structure, strategy, mindset, and study techniques. Here’s a detailed recap of what was covered.
???? Understanding the PEBC Exams and the Support You Need
Farah kicked off the session by discussing the importance of having the right guidance when preparing for the PEBC. She highlighted the distinctions between the Evaluating Exam (EE) and the Qualifying Exam (MCQ), noting that MCQ requires deeper application of knowledge and critical thinking.
The SolRx team, Parmeet, Aarav, and Parag, introduced themselves and shared their collective experience in Canadian pharmacy practice and teaching. They also mentioned that additional support would be provided by Dr. Hye-Yeong, especially in calculations, a commonly difficult area for many candidates.
???? MCQ Exam Structure: Know What You’re Facing
Farah provided a comprehensive breakdown of the MCQ exam:
- Duration: 4.5 hours
- Format: 200 multiple-choice questions
- Scoring: 50 of the 200 questions are unscored pre-test items
- Framework: Based on NAPRA competencies
- Scoring System: Criterion-referenced (unlike the EE’s fixed 60% pass mark)
She stressed the importance of balanced preparation across clinical topics and management/ethical scenarios, each making up roughly 50% of the exam content. Passive study strategies—like relying solely on question banks—won’t cut it. Instead, she encouraged active learning through structured training.
❤️ Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) Explained
Using ACS as a teaching point, Farah walked students through:
- STEMI: A full blockage and most severe form of heart attack
- NSTEMI: Partial blockage; requires different treatment
- Stable Angina: Milder, more chronic condition
She discussed treatment priorities such as aspirin, nitroglycerin, and fibrinolytics (e.g., alteplase) for STEMI within a 6-hour window. She also emphasized real-world scenarios, such as elderly or diabetic patients with atypical symptoms.
???? Medications from Hospital to Home
Farah then outlined the key drug classes used in cardiovascular emergencies and chronic heart conditions:
- STEMI and NSTEMI: ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, high-dose statins, antiplatelets (e.g., clopidogrel, ticagrelor)
- Stable Angina: Aspirin (lifelong), nitroglycerin (PRN)
Understanding which medications reduce mortality vs symptom control is crucial, especially when differentiating between heart failure, heart attacks, and atrial fibrillation.
???? Insulin Dosing and Calculation Strategies
Farah led a live calculation session to teach insulin dosing:
- TDI (Total Daily Insulin): 0.5 units/kg
- Split: 40% basal, 60% bolus
- Example: Case study featuring “Emily” helped illustrate practical application
She reminded students that although multiple resources are available, CPS should be your primary go-to. She also noted that MCQ and OSCE components can now be taken separately, giving candidates more flexibility.
???? Preparing the Right Mindset
Parag spoke about the often-overlooked importance of mindset during exam prep. He emphasized that management and ethics questions are not black-and-white, and success often depends on nuanced thinking and applying sound professional judgment. He also highlighted how learning from Canadian-trained instructors brings an edge to your preparation.
???? MCQ Course Announcement
Parmeet officially announced SolRx’s 14-week MCQ prep course, starting July 15th, with classes held twice weekly from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. This course will:
- Focus equally on therapeutics and management
- Be led by experienced instructors
- Cost $1549 + tax (with recordings available for missed sessions)
Additionally, candidates were invited to attend the OSCE Open House on June 21st. While work experience helps, Farah reminded everyone that exam success is rooted in dedication and the right study approach, not the number of MCQs solved.
???? Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting out or are already deep into your PEBC prep, this session was a clear reminder that smart strategy, focused study, and the right mentorship make all the difference. At SolRx, we are committed to helping candidates navigate every step of the PEBC journey with confidence.
Let’s prepare together—smarter, not harder.