Cardiology Board Review general tips: Difference between revisions
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==Dimensions== | ==Dimensions== | ||
Dimensions are used to trigger your knowledge regarding the need for valve replacement or valve repair. You should know the dimensions that should trigger valve replacement in the guidelines. | Dimensions are used to trigger your knowledge regarding the need for valve replacement or valve repair. You should know the dimensions that should trigger valve replacement in the guidelines. | ||
==EKG== | |||
Tests for pattern recognition skills. Review lots of complex EKGs. The EKGs can be tough but are fair. It usually comes down to 2 diagnoses, not 5 or 6. If you see VT, it is most likely it. Pick the most serious diagnosis that is threatening to the patient if you are not sure. | |||
Revision as of 13:07, 29 September 2012
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Data
There is no random data provided on the test. Capture the one line summary of what they are telling you in all the data. This is there for a reason. Use it to guide you in discerning what they are trying to test you on in this question.
Goal of the Exam
They are looking for you to integrate knowledge, not just regurgitate knowledge.
Distracting Answers
These answers are not that close to the correct answer so that the test is fair. They are somewhat distant from the correct answer. Usually comes down to two answers.
Geography
Living in South America should trigger consideration of Chagas disease for instance.
Symptoms
Symptoms are provided because the guidelines are often based upon symptoms.
Treatment versus Diagnosis Options
Look for the one choice that is not diametrically opposed to the others, that is different from the others.
Dimensions
Dimensions are used to trigger your knowledge regarding the need for valve replacement or valve repair. You should know the dimensions that should trigger valve replacement in the guidelines.
EKG
Tests for pattern recognition skills. Review lots of complex EKGs. The EKGs can be tough but are fair. It usually comes down to 2 diagnoses, not 5 or 6. If you see VT, it is most likely it. Pick the most serious diagnosis that is threatening to the patient if you are not sure.