Completely unpredictable...

So sometimes the exam just contains weird and wonderful things that you wouldn't expect - innervation of the female genital tract being an often quoted example. Then again other questions that come out of left field can with hindsight be identified as a popular issue around the time the exam was set. Another example that fits this is a major incident question following the 7/7 bombings.

So in light of that what sort of sort things have sprung to my mind? (if you can think of others please post in the comments).

1. Measles- recent outbreak in Wales. Questions could easily cover rashes/ other child infections and vaccination schedules. Also could be extended to meningitis or other infections amongst students
2. Over crowding: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-24432072 a BIG issue at the moment, CEM have released a statement this week and did you know they have a document detailing their recommendations for dealing with over crowding (released approx a year ago!) www.collemergencymed.ac.uk/code/document.asp?ID=6296
3. Paracetamol - recent guideline change (again about a year ago).

Other things to think about:

• Capacity
• Consent
• DVLA guidance
• Child protection.

Question:

a) What markers indicate a department is overcrowded?

b) What steps can be taken in the ED to facilitate flow?

c) Define boarding.

d) At what point does the ED become responsible for a patient?

e) What steps can be taken to improve output problems?