OB/GYN Picture Archive and Communication Simulator (PACSim) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many questions are on the OB/GYN examination?
The OB/GYN examination contains approximately 170 questions comprised of multiple-choice, hotspot, and
PACSim questions.

2. What is the length of time of the OB/GYN examination?
The examination is 3 hours long (180 minutes).

3. How many of the questions on the examination are PACSim?
There are approximately 2 PACSim questions. The rest of the examination is made-up of traditional
multiple-choice, and hotspot questions.

4. How are the PACSim questions scored?
The examination utilizes a partial-credit scoring model. The test-taker will receive full credit if all
questions within a PACSim have been answered correctly.

5. Are Advanced Item Types (AITs) new to the OB/GYN examination?
No. Hotspot questions were added to the exam in 2013. The OB/GYN examination does not include SemiInteractive (SIC) questions. Please visit ARDMS.org/AIT to learn more.

6. Why include PACSim questions instead of continuing with the traditional multiple-choice questions?
Traditional multiple-choice will continue to be the core of all ARDMS exams. PACSim questions move
the examinations closer to clinical practice, improving the level of certainty that the test-taker has
demonstrated the basic levels of skill, knowledge, and abilities when the ARDMS awards a credential.

7. Is there an OB/GYN practice examination available?
Answer: Yes. Please visit our Practice Test FAQs.

8. Whom may I contact if I have additional questions?
Answer: Please send an email to: other@ardms.org