How to Read A Paper

Using evidence in the practice of medicine requires minding three areas: the best available evidence, the clinical scenario and the patient’s values. There are four steps to carry out this process. ASK a clinical question (PICO).  During the care of your patients, you’ll come across something to which you don’t know the answer. This uncertainty

Presenting in the ER

“…no matter how much compassion and warmth I may have with my patients, my superiors grade me more on how polished I am, how well crafted my presentation is.”

– Fourth-year medical student

As unfair as it may be, your clinical grade in most of your rotations will be based on how well you present your patients. It’s very unlikely that we watch you do your physical exam or observe your interaction with the patient. It all comes down to that short performance. So why not be great at that game?


What do residency directors look for in their applicants?

Hello prospective Emergency Physicians. Dr. Casey and I have created this note to help maneuver through some of the documents that the NRMP (National Residency Matching Program) put out, specifically in regards to matching in Emergency Medicine. Our hope is that this can answer some of your questions before we meet, so we can spend our time together answering questions pertinent to your specific situation. In this first post, we’ll look at the Results of the NRMP Program Directors Survey 2012.

How to write good discharge instructions

Discharge instructions are often provided as an after-thought. You’ve gone through a complex diagnostic process, interpreted various tests and imaging and initiated life saving treatment. After several high-fives, now it’s time for the patient to go home. Your job is done. Throw some pre-printed instructions at the patient, they’re on their way, and you’re on