ED 1Clinical Reasoning

Resuscitation

Assessor

PGY4+

Due

Week 4

Requirement

Mandatory

What Assessors Look For

Systematic ABCDE approach to the deteriorating patient
Early recognition of cardiac arrest and initiation of CPR
Correct application of ALS algorithm (shockable vs non-shockable)
Appropriate drug timing (adrenaline every 3-5 min, amiodarone after 3rd shock)
Consideration of reversible causes (4Hs and 4Ts)
Clear communication and team leadership

Key Points to Demonstrate

1Call for help early - don't manage alone
2High-quality CPR: rate 100-120, depth 5-6cm, full recoil, minimize interruptions
3Shockable rhythms (VF/pVT): shock → 2 min CPR → rhythm check
4Non-shockable (asystole/PEA): CPR → adrenaline immediately → rhythm check every 2 min
5ROSC signs: purposeful movement, regular rhythm, rising ETCO2
64Hs: Hypoxia, Hypovolaemia, Hypo/Hyperkalaemia, Hypothermia
74Ts: Tension pneumothorax, Tamponade, Toxins, Thrombosis (PE/MI)

Tips for Success

  • 💡Practice verbalizing your thought process - assessors want to hear your reasoning
  • 💡Assign roles clearly: "You do compressions, you manage airway, you draw up drugs"
  • 💡State rhythm out loud: "This is VF - shockable rhythm, charging to 200J"
  • 💡Time your interventions: "It's been 3 minutes, give adrenaline 1mg IV"

Study Resources