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🩺 On-Call Clinical Problem Solving – A Quick Guide for Medical Students and Doctors¶

✅ Standard Steps (when you have time):¶

1. Talk to the patient – Take a full history (~30–40 mins).
2. Examine the patient – Full physical check.
3. Review tests – Labs, imaging, etc.
4. Make a diagnosis – Include possible alternatives.
5. Plan treatment – Start care and plan follow-up.

⚠️ In Emergencies (e.g., unconscious patient):¶

• Do everything at the same time: history, exam, tests, treatment.
• Focus immediately on:
  • Airway, Breathing, Circulation (ABCs)
  • Vital signs
  • Anything life-threatening

🤔 Common Medical Student Challenge:¶

• You get called for problems like chest pain or fever.
• You feel unsure without a full workup.
• You don’t have an hour per patient—must prioritize fast.

🔁 Recommended Quick Response System:¶

1. Phone Call – Judge urgency, give basic orders, tell the nurse what to do until you arrive.
2. While Walking – Think: “What are the likely and dangerous causes?”
3. At the Bedside – Rule out life-threatening issues first.
4. Then – Do a quick history, exam, and start management.

This system helps you stay efficient and safe when time is tight.