This is again a massive topic and we can't possibly cover every possibilty you might encounter. However we can try to give you a structure to approach a medical or surgical emergencies which you can hopefully utilise to manage patients well. 

A-E 

We keep talking about a good A-E and we'll say the same thing again - when you're called to review an acutely unwell patient, a thorough A-E examination is your friend.  

Watch the lecture series for some examples but key things; 

• Get a good handover and information gather on the phone if you can. Ask for fresh observations and go and review the patient. 

• Start with a focused hisotry and A-E 

• If you are concerned don't be afraid to call for help or put out an emergency call if help is needed immediately. 

• Take a stepwise approach to management of patients 

  • Manage from A - E and manage each noted issue. 

  • Not all emergencies require a medical alert call but they do require management

  • for example hyperkalaemia of >6.5 requires urgent review, initiation of treatment, as well as review of bloods, medications and response to treatment. 

• Blood gases are a very quick test that can be done which will often give you a lof of information about a patients condition. 

• If they don't have IV access, sort it early, especially if you're worried they may deteriorate 

• Be aware of local guidelines, including the resus council guidelines  for management of most emergencies. 

• and remember to escalate early. 

• Document clearly with a plan of action and a follow up time line. Particularly if the patient needs further or repeat investigations. 

Disclaimer:

This is a not for profit education resource designed for new resident doctors. All information serves as a guide to help doctors approach day to day life as an F1. It is not intended as a guide to patient care and should never be used as such or in place of advice of treating clinicians or published clinical guidelines. All cases are fictional and any resemblance is purely coincidental. Additionally all images are AI generated unless otherwise stated.