Alert and Oriented

Dr. Naim Batik’s journey through medicine is nothing short of extraordinary—12 years of Internal Medicine training across three countries, multiple visa rejections, and an unrelenting drive to become the best physician he can be. From 8 years of combined residency in Syria and Qatar to finally landing at Cook County Hospital in Chicago for his third IM residency, Naim’s path is a masterclass in perseverance, adaptability, and clinical excellence. In this episode, we dive into his unique training experiences, his approach to clinical reasoning, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Whether you're a medical student, resident, or seasoned physician, you’ll walk away inspired—and maybe a little in awe of his relentless dedication.

Host: Andrew Mohama

Guest: Naim Battikh

Produced By: Andrew Mohama

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&O

Andrew Mohama

Rich Abrams

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

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 Abrams

Guest: Adrian Jenson

Produced By: Caroline Wang, Andrew Mohama

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 Twitter:

A&O

A 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/s11606-024-09226-3

Host: Andrew Mohama

Guest: Daniel Boctor

Produced By: Andrew Mohama

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A 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 Mohama

Guest: Richard Abrams

Produced By: Andrew Mohama

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A 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 Wang

Discussants: Andrew Mohama & Samantha Shih

Produced By: Kevin Grudzinski & 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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A 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 Wang

A&O Team Member: Kevin Grudzinski

Produced By: Andrew Mohama, Caroline Wang & Kevin Grudzinski

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

We’re back where Alert & Oriented began to kick off Season 4! In this episode, hosts Kevin Grudzinski and Koushik Kondapi present a clinical case of jaundice to medical students Caroline Wang (Rush M1) and Andrew Mohama (Rush M3), diving deep into the differential diagnosis and clinical reasoning process.

Hosts: Koushik Kondapi & Kevin Grudzinski

Discussants: Caroline Wang & Andrew Mohama

A&O Team Member: Rich Abrams

Produced By: Kevin Grudzinski, Koushik Kondapi & Rich Abrams

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Nathan Kudlapur and Koushik Kondapi lead medical students Ateh Fonteh & Sam Reyes through a case of acute abdominal pain.

Hosts: Koushik Kondapi & Nathan Kudlapur

Discussants: Ateh Fonteh & Sam Reyes

A&O Team Member: Kevin Grudzinski

Produced By: Kevin Grudzinski, Nathan Kudlapur & Koushik Kondapi

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Check out Nathan's YouTube Channel for concise and high-yield MedEd videos!

Nathan Kudlapur and Koushik Kondapi lead medical students Nami Kadambi & Michael Saporito through a case of markedly elevated liver tests.

Hosts: Koushik Kondapi & Nathan Kudlapur

Discussants: Nami Kadambi & Michael Saporito

A&O Team Member: Kevin Grudzinski

Produced By: Kevin Grudzinski, Nathan Kudlapur & Koushik Kondapi

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Check out Nathan's YouTube Channel for concise and high-yield MedEd videos!

Nathan Kudlapur and Koushik Kondapi lead medical students Janet Song & Julia Carter through a case of a post-solid organ transplant patient with a rash.

Hosts: Koushik Kondapi & Nathan Kudlapur

Discussants: Janet Song & Julia Carter

A&O Team Member: Kevin Grudzinski

Produced By: Kevin Grudzinski, Nathan Kudlapur & Koushik Kondapi

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 Twitter:

A&O

Rich Abrams

Nathan Kudlapur

NU Internal Med

A fantastic resource, by learners, for learners in Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine, and Hospital Medicine.

Check out Nathan's YouTube Channel for concise and high-yield MedEd videos!