The St.Emlyn’s Podcast

Summary of the St Emlyn's Teaching Course: Key Takeaways and Innovations in Medical Education The recent St Emlyn's Teaching Course in Copenhagen marked an exciting event, bringing together educators and clinicians to explore new methods and insights in medical education. This event, held for the first time in Europe, was characterized by a diverse international audience and a focus on integrating traditional teaching methods with modern innovations, particularly in the realm of social media and technology-enhanced learning. Day 1: Engaging Icebreakers and Personal Branding The course began with an unconventional icebreaker where participants created business cards featuring a logo or symbol representing themselves, along with their name, email, and an informal skill unrelated to work. This exercise was designed to foster meaningful connections and discussions, helping participants to introduce themselves through a personal and creative lens. This approach emphasized the importance of recognizing the multidimensional nature of clinicians, highlighting their interests and skills beyond the professional sphere. Holistic Approach to Clinician Well-being A central theme of the course was the holistic approach to medical education, focusing on the well-being of healthcare professionals. George Willis, an emergency physician with a background in professional football, shared his insights on maintaining mental health in stressful environments. He introduced the concept of resilience as a muscle that can be trained and strengthened, but also cautioned against overworking it to avoid burnout. This metaphor emphasized the importance of prehabilitation, setting boundaries, and ensuring adequate recovery time, crucial for sustaining a long and healthy career in medicine. Power of Personal Narratives The value of personal stories in medical education was underscored by Robert Lloyd, who shared his experiences working in South Africa's Khayelitsha Hospital. His honest account of the challenges faced in resource-limited settings, combined with his discussion on purposeful practice and cognitive reframing, offered valuable lessons on learning from failures and continuously improving. Robert's narrative highlighted the emotional and ethical complexities of medical practice, emphasizing the need for empathy and compassion, even under challenging circumstances. Reflective Exercises on Identity and Values Natalie May led an introspective exercise called "touchstone," where participants identified their core values and priorities. This exercise was based on the idea of carrying a symbolic stone inscribed with what matters most to them, often unrelated to work. The goal was to encourage reflection on how professional decisions align with personal values, prompting attendees to consider potential trade-offs when taking on new responsibilities. This exercise was a powerful tool for fostering self-awareness and prioritization, reinforcing the course's emphasis on meta-learning and personal development. The Social Age of Learning The afternoon sessions shifted focus to the role of social media in medical education. Led by Celine, Julie, and Sandra, the discussion centered on Julian Stodd's concept of the "social age of learning," where social connections and collaborative learning are paramount. The faculty explored various social media platforms, debating the relevance of platforms like Twitter versus newer options like Instagram. Participants engaged in a hands-on exercise to develop a new brand for a social media presence, focusing on content strategy, target audiences, and engagement tactics. This session highlighted the potential of social media as a tool for professional development and education while also addressing ethical considerations, such as patient confidentiality and the balance between personal and professional personas. Building Personal Learning Networks Julie Stodd's session on personal learning networks (PLNs) emphasized their importance in ongoing professional growth. PLNs consist of a network of peers, mentors, and resources that support continuous learning. The diverse backgrounds of the course's faculty and participants exemplified the power of these networks, facilitated by online connections and shared professional interests. Julie discussed strategies for building and maintaining PLNs, including engaging in online forums, attending conferences, and seeking mentorship. The session also underscored the value of diversity within PLNs, encouraging connections across different specialties and cultures to broaden perspectives. Reflective Practice and Looking Ahead The course concluded with reflections on the discussions and exercises, reiterating the importance of a holistic and reflective approach to medical education. The emphasis on personal well-being, the integration of personal narratives into teaching, and the strategic use of social media are all critical components of modern medical education. The upcoming sessions on simulation and feedback promised to build on these foundations, providing practical tools and techniques for teaching and clinical practice. The St Emlyn's Teaching Course in Copenhagen was a rich learning experience, providing valuable insights and fostering a global community of educators and clinicians. The course's focus on personal growth, ethical considerations, and the effective use of technology in education highlighted the evolving nature of medical education in the social age. As the participants continue their professional journeys, the lessons learned from this course will undoubtedly influence their teaching methods and personal development, contributing to a more connected and resilient medical community.

A critical appraisal nuggest on simple ways to understand the true effect of an intervention. Also see this more in depth podcast done with Iain Beardsell   http://ebem.podbean.com/2011/11/03/statistics-2/   vb   S

In this episode of the St Emlyn's podcast, Ian Beardsell and Simon Carley review the top 10 trauma papers of the year, highlighting key findings and their implications for trauma care. The selection includes significant studies published in high-profile journals such as The Lancet and the New England Journal of Medicine, offering valuable insights for healthcare professionals in emergency and trauma medicine. 1. Whole Body CT Scanning: REACT-2 Study The REACT-2 study explored the impact of whole-body CT (WBCT) scanning on trauma patients, particularly its effect on mortality rates. The study involved 1400 patients and found no significant difference in mortality between those who received WBCT and those who underwent more selective CT scanning. The difference in radiation exposure was minimal, suggesting that WBCT's comprehensive imaging might be more beneficial than harmful, especially in elderly patients where missed injuries can complicate outcomes. This study reassures trauma team leaders that current scanning practices are appropriate and highlights the importance of a patient-centred approach based on clinical presentation. 2. Impact Brain Apnea (IBA) Impact brain apnea, characterized by apnea and a catecholamine surge following a severe head blow, has been increasingly recognized in trauma care. The paper, co-authored by John Hines and Mark Wilson, provides a detailed explanation of IBA's pathophysiological mechanisms. This condition can lead to cardiac arrest if not promptly addressed, emphasizing the need for immediate intervention in cases of traumatic brain injury (TBI). Understanding IBA helps emergency care providers identify and treat potentially life-threatening conditions that may not be immediately apparent. 3. Decompressive Craniectomy for Raised ICP: RESCUE-ICP Trial The RESCUE-ICP trial examined the outcomes of decompressive craniectomy in patients with refractory intracranial pressure (ICP) due to severe TBI. The study found that while the procedure increased survival rates, many survivors experienced significant disability. This raises ethical considerations about the quality of life post-intervention. The trial underscores the importance of informed consent and discussions about potential outcomes with patients' families, aligning treatment with patient values. 4. STITCH Trial: Surgery Timing for Intracranial Bleeds The STITCH trial focused on the timing of surgical intervention in patients with traumatic intracranial bleeds. Although the trial faced recruitment challenges and was terminated early, results suggested better outcomes with early surgery. This finding, while not statistically conclusive, supports the notion that timely intervention can reduce mortality and improve recovery. Emergency physicians and neurosurgeons should consider these findings when deciding on surgical timing in TBI cases. 5. Traumatic Cardiac Arrest: Epidemiology and Outcomes Using data from the Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN), this study examined traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) cases, revealing a 30-day survival rate of 7.5%. This rate, similar to medical cardiac arrests, challenges the perception that TCA is almost always fatal. The study highlights the importance of aggressive resuscitation efforts and underscores the need for ongoing training to retain skills in managing these rare but critical events. 6. Open vs. Closed Chest Compressions in TCA The effectiveness of open chest (thoracotomy) versus closed chest compressions in TCA was explored, with findings indicating similar outcomes in terms of end-tidal CO2 levels, a marker for effective CPR. This challenges the notion that thoracotomy should always be performed in TCA cases. The study suggests that standard advanced life support (ALS) protocols may suffice in certain scenarios, especially where thoracotomy is not practical. 7. Rocuronium vs. Succinylcholine for RSI in Severe Brain Injury The choice between rocuronium and succinylcholine for rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in severe brain injury remains debated. An observational study found no significant overall difference in mortality between the two drugs, though succinylcholine was associated with higher mortality in severe head injury cases. This suggests a possible preference for rocuronium in such scenarios, though the evidence is not strong enough to mandate a change in practice. 8. Intraosseous Needle Length in Obese Patients As obesity becomes more prevalent, appropriate intraosseous (IO) needle length is crucial for effective vascular access. The study recommended using longer yellow IO needles for patients with a BMI over 43, as standard blue needles may not reach the marrow. This is particularly important in emergency situations where IV access is difficult, ensuring proper drug administration and preventing complications like compartment syndrome. 9. Optimal Site for Needle Decompression in Tension Pneumothorax A systematic review recommended the anterior axillary line as the preferred site for needle decompression in tension pneumothorax, aligning with standard chest drain placement. The review also noted significant complication rates associated with needle decompression, suggesting that alternative methods like thoracostomy may be necessary in certain cases. This finding emphasizes the need for precise technique and careful consideration in managing tension pneumothorax. 10. Weekend Effect in Major Trauma Care The study examined the "weekend effect" in major trauma care, finding no significant difference in mortality between weekend and weekday admissions. This suggests that well-resourced, consultant-led trauma care can provide consistent outcomes regardless of the day. The findings advocate for the 24/7 availability of senior emergency physicians and trauma teams, ensuring high-quality care at all times. Conclusion This year's top trauma papers provide valuable insights into current practices and emerging trends in trauma care. While there may not have been groundbreaking changes, the studies reinforce the importance of evidence-based decision-making, ongoing training, and ethical considerations in patient management. As the field evolves, staying informed about the latest research is crucial for improving patient outcomes and delivering high-quality trauma care. For further details and access to the studies, visit the Sentemlin site and related FOAMed resources.      

In a new podcast format Simon (@EMManchester) and Iain (@docib) discuss the month's offerings from the St Emlyn's blog and podcast (www.stemlynsblog.org).   It's been a month full of interesting posts on subjects as diverse as Thrombolysis in Stroke (Alan Grayson), The Future of Emergency Medicine in the Social Age (Simon), Cardiac Arrest Centres (Simon), Love in Critical Care (Liz Crowe), Transfers (Nat and Simon), Thrombolysis in PE (a guest post from FOAMed legend Anand Swarminathan) and Benzos in Back Pain (Janos). Head to the website for the articles themselves and all the references and links you need.   We're aiminig to make this a regular monthly podcast - let us know if it's useful and enjoyable and how we could make it even more educational.

Nat and Simon discuss the complexities of transferring a patient from the resus room to CT and back again. Look out for the blog post soon on stemlynsblog.org

Understanding Prospective and Retrospective Studies: Key Differences, Advantages, and Applications In the field of medical research, the distinction between prospective and retrospective studies is fundamental. These study designs differ primarily in the timing of data collection relative to the occurrence of outcomes, which significantly influences the quality, reliability, and applicability of the research findings. This detailed exploration aims to elucidate the characteristics, strengths, and limitations of each design, offering practical insights into their use in clinical research and practice. Defining Prospective and Retrospective Studies Prospective Studies involve the identification and enrollment of participants before the outcomes of interest occur. This design allows researchers to follow participants over time, observing events as they happen. For instance, in a study focused on chest pain, researchers would enrol patients at the onset of symptoms and monitor them to see if they develop conditions like myocardial infarction (MI). The prospective nature of these studies provides a structured approach to data collection, ensuring that all relevant information is captured consistently. Retrospective Studies, conversely, involve examining existing data after the outcomes have occurred. In this design, researchers typically review medical records or databases to identify patients who have experienced specific events, such as an MI, and then analyze these records to explore potential risk factors or causes. This approach is often more efficient and less costly than prospective studies, as it utilizes data that have already been collected. Key Differences Between Prospective and Retrospective Studies The timing of data collection in relation to the occurrence of outcomes is a critical differentiator between these study designs. This temporal aspect influences several key factors, including data quality, potential biases, and the strength of causal inferences that can be drawn. Data Collection and Quality One of the primary advantages of prospective studies is the ability to standardize data collection. Since the data is collected in real-time, researchers can establish clear protocols for what data to collect and how to collect it. This reduces variability and enhances the reliability of the study findings. For example, in a prospective study on hypertension, researchers can use a standardized checklist to document whether each participant has hypertension, ensuring consistent and accurate data across all participants. In contrast, retrospective studies depend on the quality and completeness of existing records, which were often not compiled with the current research question in mind. This reliance on historical data can lead to inconsistencies and gaps. For instance, a patient's medical record might not specify whether they had hypertension, either because it was not asked about or not documented. Such missing data can lead to biases and affect the study's conclusions, as the researchers may not have all the necessary information to make accurate assessments. Timing and Outcome Identification In prospective studies, participants are observed from the point of exposure or initial symptoms to the outcome, allowing researchers to track changes over time and potentially identify causative factors. This direct observation of the sequence of events enhances the ability to establish a cause-and-effect relationship. For instance, if a prospective study monitors patients presenting with chest pain, it can track the development of MI, thereby strengthening the evidence for an association between initial symptoms and outcomes. Retrospective studies, however, start with the outcome and work backwards to explore potential causes. This backwards-looking approach can introduce recall bias and selection bias, as the outcomes are already known and may influence which data are emphasized or selected. Additionally, retrospective studies are constrained by the availability and accuracy of past records, which can vary widely and may not cover all variables of interest, potentially leading to incomplete or skewed data. Advantages and Limitations of Each Study Design Both prospective and retrospective studies offer unique benefits and face distinct challenges, making them suitable for different types of research questions and practical considerations. Prospective Studies Advantages: High Data Quality: Prospective studies allow for systematic and standardized data collection, minimizing the risk of missing or incomplete data. Causal Inference: The temporal relationship between variables and outcomes can be clearly established, supporting stronger causal inferences. Real-Time Data Collection: Researchers can monitor the study as it progresses, allowing for adjustments to data collection methods if new relevant variables emerge. Limitations: Resource-Intensive: Prospective studies often require significant time, financial investment, and effort. The need for long-term follow-up can be particularly demanding. Long Duration: These studies can take years to complete, especially for conditions with long latency periods, delaying the availability of results. Participant Dropout: Over extended periods, there is a higher risk of participant dropout, which can reduce the study's validity and potentially bias the results. Retrospective Studies Advantages: Efficiency: Retrospective studies can be conducted relatively quickly since they rely on already available data. Lower Cost: The use of existing records reduces the need for expensive data collection processes, making these studies more cost-effective. Feasibility for Rare Conditions: Retrospective studies are particularly useful for examining rare conditions or outcomes that would require a prohibitively large cohort in a prospective design. Limitations: Data Quality Issues: Relying on existing records can lead to inconsistent data quality, with gaps or inaccuracies potentially affecting the study's findings. Bias: These studies' retrospective nature can introduce biases, such as selection bias and information bias, that can compromise the validity of the results. Limited Causal Inference: Establishing a cause-and-effect relationship is more challenging due to the lack of temporal clarity between exposure and outcome. Practical Application in Medical Research and Practice Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of prospective and retrospective studies is essential for effectively interpreting medical literature and applying research findings in clinical settings. For example, a study evaluating the effectiveness of a diagnostic tool for acute coronary syndrome would be assessed differently depending on whether it was conducted prospectively or retrospectively. Prospective studies are often regarded as the gold standard for clinical trials, particularly when testing new treatments or interventions. Their ability to minimize bias and control for confounding variables makes them invaluable for determining efficacy and safety. However, the high cost and time requirements can be significant barriers, especially in large-scale studies or those requiring long-term follow-up. While not as robust in establishing causality, retrospective studies are highly valuable for exploring existing data and generating hypotheses. They are especially useful in situations where prospective studies are impractical due to ethical concerns, time constraints, or the rarity of the condition being studied. For instance, retrospective analyses of patient records can provide insights into the natural history of a disease or the effectiveness of treatments in real-world settings. Case Study: Evaluating the HEART Score The HEART score, a tool used in emergency departments to risk stratify patients with chest pain, serves as an illustrative example of the application of these study designs. In a prospective study, researchers would enrol patients presenting with chest pain and systematically apply the HEART score, following these patients over time to track outcomes such as MI or other adverse cardiac events. This prospective approach allows for a controlled and consistent application of the score, with data collected in real time. Researchers can ensure that all relevant factors, such as patient history and troponin levels, are accurately recorded, providing a clear picture of the score's predictive value. In a retrospective study, researchers might review existing medical records of patients who presented with chest pain and were tested for troponins. They would calculate the HEART score based on the available data and correlate it with documented outcomes. While this method is more efficient and cost-effective, it is limited by the quality of the records. Incomplete or inaccurately recorded data, such as missing details on patient history, can affect the accuracy of the HEART score's evaluation, potentially leading to less reliable conclusions. Ethical Considerations Ethical considerations differ significantly between prospective and retrospective studies. Prospective studies often require informed consent from participants, as they involve collecting new data. This process ensures that participants are aware of the study's purpose, procedures, and potential risks, and they have the right to withdraw at any time. However, obtaining consent can be challenging in emergency settings or when the study involves vulnerable populations. Retrospective studies typically use anonymized data, which simplifies ethical considerations by removing the need for consent. This approach is particularly advantageous when dealing with sensitive information, as it protects patient privacy and confidentiality. However, researchers must still ensure that data are used responsibly and that individuals' privacy is not compromised. The use of anonymized data also limits the ability to collect additional information that may be relevant to the study but was not included in the original records. Conclusion: Choosing the Right Study Design The decision between using a prospective or retrospective study design should be guided by the research question, available resources, and the specific context of the study. Each design offers unique benefits and challenges, and the choice will impact the strength and applicability of the findings. Prospective studies are preferred when high-quality data and strong causal inferences are needed, despite their higher costs and time requirements. They are ideal for intervention studies, where controlling for confounding factors is crucial. While limited in establishing causality, retrospective studies provide valuable insights when prospective studies are not feasible. They are particularly useful for exploring existing data, understanding the epidemiology of diseases, and identifying potential risk factors. In clinical practice, understanding these differences helps healthcare professionals critically appraise the literature, making informed decisions based on the strengths and limitations of the evidence. At St Emlyn's, we emphasize the importance of critical appraisal and evidence-based practice. By familiarizing yourself with these study designs, you can enhance your ability to interpret research findings, apply them in clinical settings, and contribute to the ongoing advancement of medical knowledge. Thank you for exploring the complexities of prospective and retrospective studies with us. We hope this detailed discussion has provided clarity and practical guidance, empowering you to approach medical research with a critical and informed perspective. For more in-depth analysis and practical insights, continue following St Emlyn's, your trusted source for cutting-edge medical education and research.

Setting up a really great journal club.

Title: Mastering Chest Drains: Essential Tips and Techniques for Emergency Medicine In this comprehensive guide, Simon Carley and Rick Bodey from St Emlyns explore the essential aspects of chest drains, also known as intercostal drains or chest tubes, focusing on their importance, optimal techniques, and common pitfalls in emergency medicine. Importance of Chest Drains Chest drains are critical for managing conditions like pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pleural effusion by removing air, blood, or fluid from the pleural cavity. Despite not being a daily procedure in the UK, proficiency in chest drain insertion is crucial due to the potential for severe complications, including organ damage and infection. Proper training and careful execution are necessary, especially as new technologies and medical practices evolve. Choosing the Right Size Traditionally, large-bore drains (32-36 French) were used for pneumothoraces to prevent blockage by clots. However, recent evidence supports the use of smaller drains (28-32 French), even for trauma patients. Smaller drains are less invasive, cause less discomfort, and are equally effective. The move towards smaller drains aligns with a trend in medicine favoring minimally invasive procedures, which reduce patient risk and enhance comfort. Management of Occult Pneumothoraces Advances in imaging, like CT scans and ultrasound, have increased the detection of occult pneumothoraces, which are often asymptomatic and not visible on chest x-rays. Traditional guidelines recommended chest drains for all traumatic pneumothoraces, but recent research suggests conservative management may be appropriate in many cases. A systematic review found no significant difference in outcomes between patients with occult pneumothoraces managed conservatively and those who received chest drains. This highlights the importance of assessing each patient's condition, monitoring closely, and only intervening when necessary, particularly in stable, asymptomatic patients. Optimizing Analgesia Pain management during chest drain insertion is vital. Traditional local anesthesia methods are often insufficient, especially in trauma settings. Ketamine has emerged as an effective option, providing both analgesia and sedation without significant respiratory depression. Administered in small, incremental doses, ketamine helps manage pain and anxiety, making the procedure more tolerable. Additional analgesics, like fentanyl and midazolam, can complement ketamine, offering a multimodal approach to pain management. Intra-Pleural Analgesia Injecting local anesthetics, such as bupivacaine, into the pleural cavity can further enhance patient comfort, particularly as the lung re-expands and contacts the parietal pleura. This method is supported by randomized controlled trials and can significantly reduce pain in the first few hours post-insertion, aiding in better respiratory function and reducing the risk of complications like pneumonia. Securing the Drain Properly securing the chest drain is crucial to prevent accidental dislodgement, especially during patient transport or imaging. Techniques like Neil Bandari's "Jo'burg knot" offer reliable methods for securing drains, though simpler techniques may suffice for less frequent practitioners. Transparent dressings are recommended to allow monitoring of the insertion site and ensure the drain remains securely anchored. The Role of Ultrasound Ultrasound is an invaluable tool for accurately placing chest drains, particularly in cases of pleural effusion or complex pleural anatomy. It aids in identifying the best insertion site, reducing the risk of complications, and confirming the resolution of pneumothorax. Ultrasound is especially useful in patients with obesity or chronic lung conditions, where traditional landmarks may not be reliable. Aspiration of Pneumothoraces For primary spontaneous pneumothoraces, aspiration may be a viable alternative to chest drain insertion, particularly when specific criteria are met. This less invasive approach can be performed with a standard IV cannula or a small Seldinger technique, which also provides a pathway for chest drain insertion if necessary. This method is beneficial in outpatient settings, allowing for quick resolution without hospitalization. Conclusion The management of chest drains is a dynamic field, continually evolving with new research and technology. Emergency medicine practitioners must stay informed and adapt to evidence-based practices, including the use of smaller chest drains, conservative management of occult pneumothoraces, optimized analgesia, and the application of ultrasound. The goal is to provide safe, effective, and patient-centered care, minimizing unnecessary interventions. At St Emlyns, we strive to share knowledge and best practices to enhance patient care. We invite our readers to contribute their insights and experiences, fostering a collaborative approach to improving clinical skills and outcomes in emergency medicine.

Understanding Intention to Treat in Clinical Trials: A Key Concept for Critical Appraisal Welcome to the St Emlyns podcast! In this episode, Simon Carley and Rick Bodey delve into an essential topic for anyone interested in critical appraisal and clinical trials—Intention to Treat (ITT). This principle is a cornerstone in the analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), crucial for ensuring the validity and applicability of study findings. What is Intention to Treat (ITT)? ITT is a methodological principle used in the analysis of data from RCTs. It requires that participants be analyzed in the groups to which they were originally randomized, regardless of whether they adhered to the treatment protocol. This approach helps maintain the benefits of randomization, such as comparability between groups, and provides a more conservative and realistic estimate of a treatment's effectiveness. The ITT principle is essential because it preserves the randomization process's integrity, ensuring that the groups remain comparable. This comparability helps minimize bias, allowing researchers to attribute differences in outcomes to the interventions rather than to other confounding factors. Importance of ITT in Clinical Trials The ITT principle plays a critical role in RCTs by ensuring that the analysis reflects real-world scenarios where patients may not perfectly adhere to treatment regimens. For example, in a trial comparing a new anticoagulant, Carleyoxaban, to warfarin, ITT analysis would include all participants, even those who did not complete the treatment due to side effects. This comprehensive approach provides a more accurate reflection of the treatment's potential benefits and risks in everyday clinical practice. By including all participants as originally allocated, ITT analysis helps prevent bias introduced by excluding participants who experience adverse effects or switch treatments. This is vital for obtaining a realistic estimate of the treatment's effect, considering real-world complexities such as patient non-compliance. Challenges and Considerations While ITT is the gold standard for RCT analysis, it does come with challenges. One significant challenge is that it can obscure the reasons why participants dropped out or switched treatments. These reasons can provide valuable insights into the treatment's tolerability and feasibility. For instance, in the hypothetical trial with Carleyoxaban, understanding why 50% of participants dropped out could highlight serious side effects that might not be evident from an ITT analysis alone. In some cases, a per-protocol analysis, which includes only those participants who fully adhered to the treatment protocol, can offer additional insights. This type of analysis can help distinguish between a treatment's efficacy (its effect under ideal conditions) and effectiveness (its effect in a typical clinical setting). However, per-protocol analysis can introduce bias by including only those who were more likely to tolerate and benefit from the treatment. ITT vs. Per-Protocol Analysis Per-protocol analysis is particularly valuable in certain situations, such as non-inferiority trials. These trials aim to show that a new treatment is not worse than an existing one. In such cases, per-protocol analysis can provide a more conservative estimate, ensuring that observed differences are not due to adherence variations between groups. For example, in a trial evaluating a new protocol for early discharge of patients with suspected pulmonary embolism, ITT might show no difference in outcomes if many participants did not follow the new protocol. However, a per-protocol analysis could reveal whether the protocol, when followed, led to improved outcomes or safety concerns. Similarly, in trials assessing new medications, ITT can provide a realistic estimate by accounting for dropouts due to side effects. This is crucial for understanding the medication's overall safety and effectiveness in the general population. Practical Implications for Clinicians For clinicians, understanding ITT is essential for interpreting the results of clinical trials. ITT analysis offers a pragmatic view of a treatment's potential benefits and risks, reflecting the complexities of real-world clinical practice. When deciding whether to use a new treatment, clinicians must consider factors like patient adherence and potential side effects, both of which are accounted for in ITT analyses. Moreover, clinicians should be critical when appraising studies, checking whether ITT principles were followed. This includes examining flow diagrams that show participant allocation and follow-up, ensuring that the number of participants analyzed matches those initially randomized. Such diligence helps ensure that study findings are robust and applicable to clinical practice. Conclusion and Key Takeaways ITT is Essential: It preserves the benefits of randomization and provides a realistic estimate of treatment effects by including all participants as initially allocated. Per-Protocol Analysis: While useful in certain contexts, such as non-inferiority trials, it should be interpreted cautiously due to potential biases. Real-World Relevance: ITT helps clinicians understand the applicability of trial results in everyday practice, considering issues like non-compliance and side effects. Critical Appraisal: Clinicians should always verify if ITT analysis was performed when appraising studies, as it ensures a comprehensive understanding of the treatment's effectiveness. As we continue to explore critical appraisal and clinical trials, we encourage you to stay tuned to the St Emlyns podcast. Future episodes will delve deeper into various aspects of clinical research, providing valuable insights to enhance your practice. Understanding concepts like ITT not only improves your ability to interpret research but also equips you with the tools to make informed, evidence-based decisions in patient care. Thank you for joining us in this discussion. The ITT principle is a key component of high-quality RCTs and an essential concept for anyone involved in clinical research or patient care. By mastering this and other critical appraisal tools, you can significantly improve your understanding of medical literature and contribute to better patient outcomes. Stay curious, keep learning, and we'll see you in the next episode of the St Emlyns podcast!

Insights from the New York Teaching Course: Enhancing Medical Education Welcome to the St. Emlyn's blog! I'm Iain Beardsell, sharing insights from the recent New York Teaching Course, an event organized by Rob Rogers and Saline Rissai. This course brought together educators from diverse backgrounds, including pediatric surgeons, flight nurses, PhD students, and even a veterinarian, all united by the goal of becoming better educators. Notable attendees included Ross Fischer, Ashley Leibig, Sandra Viggers, and Camilla Sauronson, who shared their experiences and key takeaways. Diverse Expertise and Shared Learning The New York Teaching Course offered a unique opportunity to learn from a broad spectrum of expertise. Ross Fischer, a Pediatric Surgeon and presentation expert, found it humbling to be sought after for his advice on presentation skills. He highlighted the importance of continual improvement, noting the evolution of presentations over the years. His blog, ffoliet.com, offers valuable tips for enhancing presentation skills, a crucial aspect of effective teaching. Ashley Leibig, known for her contributions to St. Emlyn's and her work at SMAC, emphasized the value of open communication. She appreciated the honesty in feedback sessions, where participants openly shared their past errors and positive feedback practices. This openness is essential for professional growth and creating a safe learning environment. Sandra Viggers, a research fellow at the Copenhagen Academy for Medical Education and Simulation, focused on the power of vulnerability in simulation and debriefing. She found the social events particularly impactful, highlighting a moment where a participant shared a personal story, moving many to tears. This reinforced the importance of sharing and building a supportive community in educational settings. Camilla Sauronson, a medical student from Denmark and PhD candidate in Tourette Syndrome, valued the inspiring environment of the course. She was particularly interested in innovative teaching methods like the flipped classroom, which involves engaging learners with materials before group discussions. This method fosters active learning and deeper understanding, a shift from traditional lecture-based teaching. Key Takeaways and Learning Points The course provided numerous valuable insights and practical lessons: Flipped Classroom: Camilla Sauronson emphasized the effectiveness of the flipped classroom approach, which encourages students to engage with educational content before attending group discussions. This method promotes active learning and enriches classroom interactions. Constructive Feedback: The feedback session led by George Willis was a highlight, demonstrating the importance of giving constructive feedback. Ashley Leibig noted the challenges in providing good feedback but appreciated the practical pointers provided during the session. Effective feedback is critical for personal and professional development. Presentation Skills: Ross Fischer underscored the continuous need to refine presentation skills. His insights into slide design and delivery were invaluable, reminding educators of the importance of clear and engaging communication in teaching. Resilience and Wellbeing: Sandra Viggers reflected on Chris Doty's talk on resilience. Doty discussed recognizing signs of burnout and the importance of self-care. Sandra emphasized the need for educators to be mindful of their own and their learners' wellbeing, highlighting the role of supportive relationships in preventing burnout. Engaging Lectures: Ken Mills' interactive workshop on evidence-based medicine showcased that lectures can be both educational and entertaining. Using historical figures to illustrate concepts made the session memorable and engaging, demonstrating that education can and should be enjoyable. Building a Supportive Educational Community A particularly poignant moment during the course was a participant sharing a deeply personal story during a social event. Sandra Viggers emphasized the significance of vulnerability and the supportive community fostered at the course. This sense of community is vital in emergency medicine and education, where the pressures of the job can be intense. Building strong, supportive networks helps individuals navigate challenges and grow both personally and professionally. Practical Applications and Future Directions As the course concluded, participants were encouraged to apply what they had learned in their own teaching practices. Key practical steps include: Implementing the Flipped Classroom: Start by incorporating pre-session materials like podcasts or articles, fostering richer discussions during group sessions. Developing Effective Feedback Techniques: Create a structured approach to giving feedback, focusing on being constructive and empathetic. Enhancing Presentation Skills: Regularly review and improve presentation materials, seeking feedback from peers. Prioritizing Wellbeing: Integrate wellbeing discussions into educational curricula and encourage self-care practices among staff and students. Fostering a Supportive Community: Create opportunities for personal sharing and team-building, strengthening trust and collaboration. Looking Forward The New York Teaching Course was an enriching experience, and similar events are planned for the future, including one in Copenhagen before the next SMAC conference. These courses provide more than just educational content; they are opportunities to connect with a global community of educators dedicated to improving their craft. For more detailed reflections and session summaries, the Scan FOAM website offers comprehensive coverage. Their posts provide a virtual experience of the course, nearly as immersive as attending in person. Conclusion: A Commitment to Continuous Improvement The New York Teaching Course reinforced that teaching is not merely about imparting knowledge but about connecting with students, being vulnerable, and continuously improving. Whether you're an experienced educator or just starting, there's always room for growth. Let's carry forward the lessons learned, strive to be better educators, and support our students and colleagues. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and stay tuned for more insights and stories from St. Emlyn's. Keep learning, keep teaching, and be the best educator you can be.