General practice is a funny old game, full of its own nuances.

Despite the numerous practice role-plays in anticipation of — and beyond — the OSCE exams, real-life patient scenarios can be a different kettle of fish altogether.

Most of the time, GP consults ebb and flow smoothly, with ideas, concerns and expectations largely met and the consult reaching a gratifying conclusion for both doctor and patient.

But occasionally a patient says something that can lead an overworked and irritable GP to the tipping point — and struggling to refrain from pressing that imaginary ‘eject’ button on the patient’s seat.