Art of Emergency Medicine: Recent Episodes
Abrar and Kishan
The Art of Emergency Medicine podcast is an effort to help and inspire trainees of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) to put their best foot forward and progress through the program. We achieve this by covering various training issues and exam topics focussed on SAQ and OSCE questions. Abrar and Kishan – FACEM and Advanced Trainee respectively, form the core of our creative team, based in Melbourne, Australia. We hope you enjoy it!
In this episode, we look at an SAQ on Immunological Emergency. The case involves a differentiation of the septic vs other post transplant complications and how to go about your assessment and management. We've included additional potential exam questions in a table format including high yield tips to take your answers to the next level. Check out the cast notes and SAQ at https://artofemergency.com/
In this episode, we look at an SAQ on Vision Loss which includes a discussion on Painless vs Painful Vision Loss along with interpretation of a fundoscopic image and management. We also talk about Ultrasound in the diagnosis of Vision loss with some case pictures attached. Vision loss is a favourite SAQ topic of examiners, so ensure you use this podcast as an impetus to get your exam prep into sharp focus (pardon the pun). Check out the cast notes and SAQ at https://artofemergency.com/
In this episode, we look at Trauma in the Rural setting which makes it an important modifier in the ACEM fellowship exams. We talk about the initial resuscitation, preparation and actions. We then include a bit of bread and butter MTP and throw in a discussion on how you would transport a patient like this to a major centre. We also discus briefly TEG and ROTEM. Check out the cast notes and SAQ at
In this episode, we take a deep dive into an SAQ on Cardiac Arrest in Pregnancy. This is an important area of study for the Fellowship Written SAQ where the modifiers for bread and butter Resuscitation medicine is tested. Our modifier for this episode is Pregnancy. Whether you're preparing for your exams or refining your clinical practice, this episode will give you the critical insights you need. Let’s dive in. Check out the cast notes and SAQ at
In this banger of an episode, we take a deep dive into an SAQ on Methadone. This is an emerging public health area for emergency medicine trainees to build strong, exam-ready knowledge. In this episode, we take a focused look at methadone — covering its pharmacology, key prescribing considerations, and the management of methadone withdrawal syndromes. Whether you're preparing for your exams or refining your clinical practice, this episode will give you the critical insights you need. Let’s dive in. Check out the cast notes and SAQ at
In this episode, we take a deep dive into an SAQ on Drowning / Submersion Injury. This is something with specific Australian context, implications and data. Check out the cast notes and SAQ at
Welcome to our first podcast of 2025 on Dysbarism focussing on Decompression Illness. We wanted to cover this important summer topic with a deep dive on Physics and pathophysiology which will make it a lot easier to understand and score high marks on potential SAQs. As usual the accompanying SAQ document has potential questions that could be asked on this topic. Go to for the SAQ and cast notes.
This final episode of 2024, we go into Xmas and New Year with a bang and discuss an important clinical presentation with a unique pathophysiology. Treating the presenting features with the usual protocols may actually be counterproductive here. Prompt diagnosis and recognition leads to a positive outcome for the patient in the emergency department itself. Go to for the SAQ and cast notes.
In this episode, we cover a common ailment but with a paediatric qualifier - iron deficiency anaemia in a child. We discuss what the red flags are for a child needing admission for anaemia (not what you would think) and differentials along with investigations. Go to for the SAQ and cast notes.
A highly relevant cast on a potential exam SAQ very relevant to the ED Physician. How do you feel about such a patient? What are the distinguishing features from this compared to epileptic seizures? How do you assess and manage this condition? We delve into this and more in this cast that will elevate your exam prowess for the fellowship written and osce exam. Go to artofemergency.com for the accompanying worked up SAQ sample.
Today's cast is a short and sweet discussion on an exam question regarding Orbital compartment syndrome that was written by our podcast host. This is a recurrently examined topic in both written and osce exams in the ACEM fellowship exams. Please check out the relevant SAQ on artofemergency.com
Here we discuss the administration and logistical challenges faced by a Rural Emergency department in a question and answer table format for the same clinical scenario as Cast 24 - Haematological Malignancy. For the Cast Notes go to artofemergency.com
We discuss a question here on a patient presenting with a Haematological Malignancy delving into the differentials and their aetiologies (more possible questions and answers revealed in the SAQ document), clinical features, CXR and CT interpretation along with complications. Please follow the link to the SAQ on .
In this episode, Kishan and I are back with a bang - a lot has happened over the last 12 months. We discuss an SAQ on a special situation / complex case of Postpartum Psychosis. This is designed to have 3 sub-questions totalling 12 marks. We begin with identifying features on history followed by specific examination and management options. This type of SAQ is one where if you have not come across the topic before, it will be difficult to score full marks. Check out the full SAQ on www.artofemergency.com
We discuss a potential question here on Cord Syndromes delving into the different types of syndromes and their aetiologies (more possible answers revealed in the SAQ document), clinical features and prognosis. We then progress potential questions into neurogenic vs spinal shock along with management of one such critically unwell patient. The SAQ starts with an x-ray image interpretation so please follow the link to the SAQ on . This cast was recorded in mid 2021 however the author has provided a modified version of this to the Feb 2022 Monash Trial OSCE.
Here we discuss a Dermatology SAQ with a difference. Starting with an image description and differential diagnoses, we enter into DRESS (Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms). How would you differentiate between DRESS and SJS/TENS? How do you assess and manage an entity like this? And what do you do when a patient with a rash deteriorates? For the SAQ with images, go to www.artofemergency.com
In part 2 of our discussion with FACEM Dr. Jonathan Henry and his experience in a resource limited setting in Vanuatu, we cover ways one can advocate for patients both clinically as well as health promotion, barriers to care and social determinants of health using examples. We go through some amazing tips, tricks and hacks that he has picked up during his work (think MacGyver!). Finally, we go through some words of wisdom important for those who may one day want to follow their heart and practice emergency medicine in a resource limited setting. For shownotes, visit
In Part 1 of this 2 part episode, we have another special guest Dr. Jonathan Henry FACEM who provides a fascinating discussion on global emergency care and resource limited settings using his experience in Vanuatu. We are so reliant on gold standard top line care in Australia, that we forget the basics and alternatives. How would you treat a life threatening emergency with limited resources in a different country? We use a case based approach using a potential fellowship written SAQ in the Admin style. Go to for the shownotes.
In this special episode, Cardiologist Dr. Manuja Premaratne joins us to answer many burning questions in cardiac chest pain risk stratification. As the Head of Cardiac Imaging at Peninsula Health, he is uniquely placed to discuss risk stratification in chest pain patients. The varied discussion points in this episode include - HEART score, When to use modalities like treadmill, mibi vs CTCA, Troponin rise in Renal failure, Stent restenosis, amongst other points very relevant to ED Registrars. This will immediately improve your practice at the bedside!! For the attached SAQ on the HEART score - go to www.artofemergency.com
A very extensive in-depth cast on a Stroke SAQ - the initial 5 part SAQ coming upto 23 marks with several alternative questions. We cover a combination of imaging, latest treatment philosophies and complications in both list and table form. Check out the accompanying SAQ on
In this cast, we cover an exam question on conditions relating to the Paediatric Bowel where we consider how to answer on differentials, imaging and management. The accompanying SAQ on is an example of how one condition or presentation can be used to test your broad knowledge in a specific patient population.
A classic SAQ for the ACEM Fellowship Written Exam - something that needs to be understood and answered at a high level. We discuss also a case of diagnostic bias relating to a dissection which makes it interesting. Check out the SAQ and Xray images on www.artofemergency.com
In this cast, we have an all encompassing SAQ on Anorexia Nervosa. We discuss atleast 11 possible SAQ questions one could ask a candidate in this area covering definitions, admission criteria and management. Link to the associated SAQ document on www.artofemergency.com
In this cast, we delve into the world of the Admin SAQ - specifically 'Sentinel Events'. Would you be able to answer an SAQ on this topic right now? What are the various definitions and categories of Sentinel Events in Medicine? The admin SAQ is the often forgotten area with formulaic approaches. Don't let this be you. Listen to this cast and make this an area of strength. Link to the associated document on www.artofemergency.com
This time we venture into the world of toxicology with an agent that is usually dear to our heart - caffeine. The nectar of emergency medicine is everywhere and can be hidden in a variety of products. It is not just a simple overdose causing cardiovascular effects. It can be weird and wonderful being a perfect SAQ topic for the ACEM fellowship exam.
Here we discuss a broad SAQ on Preeclampsia and Eclampsia with emphasis on answering questions also relating to differential diagnoses and variants. The is detailed with other ways this topic could be examined in the fellowship exam. Check out other episodes and accompanying files on
We discuss intubation in the critically ill patient with special focus on as aspect that is usually lacking or ignored - the 'physiological airway'. We all know about the anatomic preparation with LEMON mnemonics of the airway assessment but what about the physiologic difficulties when tubing the sick patient? This is where Emergency Medicine has the niche and knowing how to optimise the airway is essential Fellowship Knowledge. Check out the corresponding SAQ on the
In this episode, Kishan and Abrar cover some differentials and possible aetiologies of a patient presenting with Weakness. Specifically, here we discuss GBS, some typical and atypical features, special SAQ questions and comparison tables. A heavy but important episode for the fellowship written candidate! Check the SAQ document on the
This episode deals with a classic fellowship topic, the Paediatric Non-Accidental Injury (NAI). We delve deeper into what else can mimic NAI, what are the historical, physical exam and radiology features for NAI.
This is a pearler of a case which will expose you to an aspect of toxic alcohol poisoning specifically for ethylene glycol, taking your understanding to the next level. We start off with the undifferentiated patient and make our way through differentials, ABG analysis and a discussion of blood gas vs serum values and how a specific difference can drop a truth bomb on you. Enjoy!
This condition is a staple of fellowship exams in all critical care specialties with Emergency Medicine right at the forefront. We have the awesome opportunity to be there right at the beginning of this patient's journey and make a big difference. Learn the crucial aspects of how to answer the SAQ on Asthma.
Here we tackle the evolving SAQ type - you start with something that tests your 'basic approach' and then takes an abrupt turn for the worse and challenges you. We take the approach of an undifferentiated scenario that eventually makes it's way to Thoracotomy in the ED.
Here we discuss a bread and butter staple for the ED Physician - Paracetamol OD. We discuss the various situations, controversies and management points that are essential in acing the fellowship exam.
This episode discusses a seldom used but invaluable procedure in the management of the burns patient. We discuss it in the SAQ / OSCE format. Kishan gives his valuable personal experience having performed an escharotomy in a burns patient.
Discussion of the definition, ACEM position statement and management of Access Block in your hospital.
Welcome to this short introductory episode that lays down the framework for our brand new podcast - Art of Emergency Medicine.