Alert and Oriented

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Christine Tsai, a doctor, educator, and mentor whose career exemplifies excellence in medicine. Dr. Tsai is an associate professor of medicine and attending physician of hospital medicine at RUSH medical center. She completed her B.A. in biochemical sciences at Harvard, her M.D. at Columbia, and her residency in internal medicine at Oregon Health and Science University.Over her 12 years as a practicing physician, Dr. Tsai has demonstrated a devotion to medical education and clinical practice. She has served as the Director of Clinical Skills, Practitioner Role Leader, and the Internal Medicine Sub-Internship Co-Director, shaping both the preclinical and clinical curriculum at Rush Medical College. Dr. Tsai also embodies a passion for mentorship of numerous medical students, residents, and junior faculty members.Come along as the conversation merges from the technical to the philosophical.Host: Samantha ShihGuest: Christine (Steen) TsaiProduced By: Samantha ShihAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on X:A&OA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Welcome to our second episode of the Early Clinical Learners Series - a series dedicated towards fostering clinical reasoning skills and strategies in early clinical learners! In this episode, hosts Caroline Wang, Dr. Kevin Grudzinski, and Samantha Shih guide M1 students Kenny Pham and Naomi Bennett through a classic Alert and Oriented case discussing a farmer's cough. Next, our hosts share clinical pearls and strategies regarding pulmonary diagnostic workups and pulmonary function tests. Hosts: Caroline Wang, Dr. Kevin Grudzinski, Samantha ShihGuests: Kenny Pham, Naomi BennettProduced By: Caroline WangAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&OA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Dr. Tim Rowe, a leader in pulmonary and critical care medicine. In this episode, Dr. Rowe shares his journey through medicine, his passion for teaching and mentorship, and his expertise in critical care and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). Whether you're a medical student, resident, or seasoned physician, you'll gain valuable perspectives on navigating the challenges of medicine and fostering growth in the next generation of healthcare professionals.Hosts: Caroline Wang, Kevin Grudzinski Guest: Tim RoweProduced By: Caroline Wang Alert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on X:A&OA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

In this episode of The Doctor’s Playbook, we sit down with Dr. Ben Singer—pulmonary critical care physician, scientist, and two-time Medical Jeopardy national champion. A leader in ICU and pulmonary medicine, he was a trusted voice during the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to be the go-to expert for tackling the toughest clinical cases.We explore the art of clinical reasoning in an era of rapid recall, strategies to sharpen diagnostic skills, and how to balance efficiency with deep thinking. Dr. Singer also shares his insights on vulnerability and humility in medicine—why true confidence comes from knowing your limits, challenging assumptions, and embracing uncertainty.Plus, we dive into his experience leading Northwestern’s Socrates Project, solving medical mysteries, and the strategy behind his Jeopardy wins. Whether you’re a medical student, resident, or seasoned physician, this episode is packed with wisdom to refine your clinical approach and enhance patient care.Lead Host: Andrew MohamaSupporting Host: Kevin Grudzinski, MDGuest: Benjamin Singer, MDProduced By: Andrew MohamaAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on X:A&OAndrew MohamaRich AbramsNU Internal MedConnect on LinkedInAndrew MohamaA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Dr. Naim Battikh, an internal medicine physician with diverse training from Syria to Chicago, shares his riveting journey through 12 years of residency. He recalls the trials of visa rejections and cultural adjustments, emphasizing perseverance and mentorship. The conversation delves into balancing a medical career with family life, enhancing clinical skills as a chief resident, and leveraging AI in diagnostics. Naim also highlights the transformative role of research in cardiology, showcasing how resilience shapes both personal and professional growth.

Welcome to our first episode of the Early Clinical Learners Series - a series dedicated towards fostering clinical reasoning skills and strategies in early clinical learners! In this episode, hosts Caroline Wang, Andrew Mohama, and Samantha Shih guide M1 student Adrian Jenson through a classic Alert and Oriented case. Joined by expert clinician Dr. Richard Abrams, they break down key clinical reasoning strategies, essential tips for early learners, and how to approach heart failure with reduced ejection fraction like a pro. Whether you're just starting clinical learning or refining your diagnostic skills, this episode is packed with valuable insights to boost your confidence on the wards!This episode experienced technical difficulties during recording, which may result in certain sections of audio being less clear than intended. We appreciate your understanding.Hosts: Caroline Wang, Andrew Mohama, Samantha Shih, Dr. Richard AbramsGuest: Adrian JensonProduced By: Caroline Wang, Andrew MohamaAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&OA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

What does it take to master clinical reasoning in an ever-evolving medical landscape? Dr. Daniel Boctor, MD dives into the complexities of decision-making in medicine, why asking “why” is a skill every doctor should cultivate, and how AI can complement—but never replace—the human touch in healthcare. In this intellectually stimulating conversation, host Andrew Mohama seeks out Daniel's insights on clinical reasoning through frameworks and personal stories from his journey in medicine as an internal medicine resident physician at UCSF. Along the way, Daniel offers practical advice for learners and clinicians alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about medicine.Daniel's recent publication in JGIM questioning why residents discontinue metformin on admission: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11606-024-09226-3Host: Andrew MohamaGuest: Daniel BoctorProduced By: Andrew MohamaAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&ORich AbramsNathan KudlapurNU Internal MedA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

In this inspiring episode of The Doctor's Playbook, host Andrew Mohama sits down with Dr. Richard Abrams, a distinguished internist, educator, and Associate Dean of Learning Environments at Rush University Medical Center. Dr. Abrams reflects on nearly 40 years in medicine, sharing insights on finding joy in patient care, mentorship, and personal growth.We explore the evolution of medicine, from diversifying medical teams to the shift toward team-based care, and discuss how connection—both with patients and colleagues—enriches clinical practice. Dr. Abrams recounts pivotal moments in his career, including memorable patient encounters, lessons learned from mistakes, and the impact of maintaining humanity in medicine.Dr. Abrams also shares practical advice on balancing the art and science of clinical reasoning, avoiding biases, and creating a positive culture within medical teams. Whether you're a medical student, resident, or seasoned physician, this episode offers profound reflections and actionable strategies to enhance your practice.Join us for a conversation that reminds us why medicine is, as Dr. Abrams describes, "the best career you could have." Host: Andrew MohamaGuest: Richard AbramsProduced By: Andrew MohamaAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&ORich AbramsNathan KudlapurNU Internal MedA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

In this episode, hosts Kevin Grudzinski & Caroline Wang present a clinical case of volume overload to medical students Andrew Mohama (Rush M3) & Samantha Shih (Rush M3). Listen along as this one takes many unexpected turns!Hosts: Kevin Grudzinski & Caroline WangDiscussants: Andrew Mohama & Samantha ShihProduced By: Kevin Grudzinski & Caroline WangAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&ORich AbramsNathan KudlapurNU Internal MedA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

In this special first episode of The Doctor’s Playbook, we turn the spotlight on our very own host, Kevin Grudzinski, the mind behind Alert and Oriented. Join us as we delve into Kevin's journey through the world of medicine—how he got started, the challenges he's faced, and the moments that shaped his path as a clinician. Kevin shares invaluable insights into the art and science of clinical reasoning, discussing strategies that help healthcare professionals navigate complex cases with clarity and confidence.We also explore Kevin's passion for mentoring early learners in medicine, and how he helps them develop the critical thinking skills needed to thrive in clinical settings. Whether you’re a seasoned healthcare professional or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of practical tips for improving your diagnostic process and fostering the next generation of clinicians. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with insightful takeaways, clinical reasoning experiences, and a deep appreciation for teaching the craft of medicine.Hosts: Andrew Mohama & Caroline WangA&O Team Member: Kevin GrudzinskiProduced By: Andrew Mohama, Caroline Wang & Kevin GrudzinskiAlert & Oriented is a medical student-run clinical reasoning podcast dedicated to providing a unique platform for early learners to practice their skills as a team in real time. Through our podcast, we strive to foster a learning environment where medical students can engage with one another, share knowledge, and gain valuable experience in clinical reasoning. We aim to provide a comprehensive and supportive platform for early learners to develop their clinical reasoning skills, build confidence in their craft, and become the best clinicians they can be.Follow the team on Twitter:A&ORich AbramsNathan KudlapurNU Internal MedA fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.