5-Step Problem Solving Guide

This is a guide to the Clinical Reasoning Course, providing an overview of the course structure for working on cases online and in small groups. Addresses Nervous System cases (also applies to all 1-session cases in the NEW CRC). Guide Prepared for the Clinical Reasoning Course Directors by Karen Spear Ellinwood, PhD, JD, Director, Faculty Instructional Development, Assistant Professor, Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson. Course Directors: Paul St. John, PhD, and Alice Min, MD

PRESENTATION OUTLINE

5-Step Structured Approach

Clinical Problem Solving

Step 1

Frame the Problem
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What do we need to explain?

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Identify pertinent facts

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Articulate questions for investigation

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Example: Are these symptoms all due to one cause? Are these related? Does one condition cause the other? What stands out?

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Step 2

Formulate Hypotheses with Rationales

Describe two or more hypotheses

that might be causing the patient's symptoms

Articulate why

these are possible or plausible

Relate these to

 scientific concepts and/or clinical facts

Step 3

Develop Strategies for Assessment
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What do I need to know?

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How could I find out?

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Why do I want this particular test?

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How will results help me to

differentiate from among possible causes?
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Are there social or economic factors

that I should consider?
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the patient's culture & language?

How can I adapt my approach to respect
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Physical Exam Findings

Released AFTER Student Submits Ideas for How to Proceed (Step 3)
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Step 4

Narrow Diagnoses with Rationales
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Prioritize hypotheses

based upon facts, clinical facts & scientific concepts
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Determine which hypotheses

explain adequately the patient's symptoms
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Prepare to bring

an open mind to the session

Step 5

Post-case Reflection
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Reflect on the Case

What you learned
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Reflect on Process

How you or your group approached the case
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Reflect on Progress

Recognize and describe progress and challenges
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Reflect on How to Improve

Strategies for future individual and collaborative problem-solving
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University of Arizona College of Medicine - Tucson

Prepared by KC Spear Ellinwood, PhD, JD, FID Director
Photo by Al_HikesAZ

Course Directors

Paul St. John, PhD, and Alice Min, MD