MCCQE1 High-Yield Summary – All Specialties

This page provides a comprehensive high-yield overview of all major specialties tested in the MCCQE1 exam. Designed specifically for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) preparing for Canadian medical licensure through the Medical Council of Canada.

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⚡ Must-Know High-Yield Facts for MCCQE1

🔴 Emergency Treatments – Give Immediately

• Anaphylaxis: Epinephrine IM 0.5mg thigh – always FIRST
• STEMI: Aspirin + heparin + urgent PCI (door-to-balloon <90 min)
• Tension PTX: Needle decompression 2nd ICS MCL – no time for X-ray
• Meningitis: Ceftriaxone + vancomycin – do NOT wait for LP if unstable
• Eclampsia: IV magnesium sulfate → stabilize → deliver
• Status epilepticus: IV lorazepam → phenytoin → intubate
• Malignant hyperthermia: Stop trigger agent → IV dantrolene immediately

🟡 First-Line Treatments – Most Tested

• Type 2 DM: Metformin first-line always (unless CKD severe)
• HTN + DM or CKD: ACE inhibitor or ARB
• MDD: SSRI (sertraline or fluoxetine)
• Community-acquired pneumonia (mild): Amoxicillin outpatient
• H. pylori: Triple therapy (PPI + clarithromycin + amoxicillin)
• Atrial fibrillation + stroke risk: Anticoagulation (DOAC preferred)
• Osteoporosis: Bisphosphonates (alendronate) first-line

🟢 Do NOT Do – Classic MCCQE1 Traps

• Placenta previa: NEVER perform digital vaginal exam
• Epiglottitis: NEVER examine throat in office without airway ready
• Pyloric stenosis: NEVER do surgery before correcting electrolytes
• DKA: NEVER start insulin if K <3.5 – correct potassium first
• Tension PTX: NEVER delay for imaging – clinical diagnosis only
• Capable patient refusing treatment: NEVER override – respect autonomy

📊 Canadian Screening Guidelines Quick Reference