Emergency medicine (EM) is a unique field where the logistics of work environment is the biggest challenge for any organized traditional teaching and training. The shift pattern of work, absence of availability of real-time situations in controlled environment, availability of teaching faculty 24/7 and quality control of teaching and training are the major challenges that need to be considered. It requires lot of organizational, departmental as well as operational support to run a successful teaching program where all the important aspects of teaching and training are considered. In the emergency teaching and training, issues of supervision are of prime importance. The fear of complaints and litigations is enormous. Meeting the six core competencies of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and achieving the milestones before the residents are signed off are the goals and objectives of any good teaching program. In this chapter, we discuss the important modifications in teaching methods, which can fulfill the important requirements and demands of this unique field which is full of challenges. We also discuss the different models of teaching and training which are different from standard traditional didactic teaching which can be adopted and may help in achieving emergency medicine core knowledge, competencies and skills.
Part of the book: Essentials of Accident and Emergency Medicine
Cardiovascular emergencies and symptoms are one of the most common reasons for patients’ attendance in any emergency department (ED). Symptoms are either related to true cardiovascular problems or mimic cardiovascular problems. It becomes very difficult at times to differentiate between them. Many symptoms which mimic the cardiovascular problem may be present due to other systems’ involvement. So, there may be an atypical presentation of cardiovascular emergencies or atypical presentation of other system problems presenting as cardiovascular diseases. Missing true cardiovascular emergencies can be a reason for mortality and morbidity cases which puts burden on healthcare services and affects physicians’ morale. Here, in this chapter, we will discuss common cardiovascular emergencies and their presentations and approach to deal with them. We will also discuss differential diagnosis, when dealing with such conditions. We will also discuss the best diagnostic modalities and disposition plans which will ensure patient safety.
Part of the book: Essentials of Accident and Emergency Medicine