In this episode, we review venous thromboembolism (VTE) and pulmonary embolism (PE) with a focus on what medical students need to know for shelf exams and the emergency medicine clerkship. Using key concepts from Tintinalli’s Emergency Medicine, we cover the epidemiology, risk factors, and pathophysiology of PE, along with the classic and atypical clinical presentations you may encounter in the emergency department.

We walk through a step-by-step diagnostic approach, including clinical gestalt, the PERC rule, Wells score, and age-adjusted D-dimer, and discuss when to use imaging such as CT pulmonary angiography and V/Q scanning. We also review important physical exam findings for DVT, ECG clues, and high-yield radiographic signs. Finally, we cover the basics of treatment, including anticoagulation, indications for thrombolysis, and when patients may require hospitalization.

This episode is designed to reinforce high-yield concepts for exams and clinical rotations, while helping students build a practical framework for evaluating suspected PE in the emergency department.

This is a clinically focused episode on the management and evaluation of acute ischemic stroke- from the ED to the ICU/ wards.

• An overview of the format of the LSU Neurology Clerkship
• How to succeed with the physical exam, and patient presentations
• How to study for the Shelf exam
• How to apply what you learn here for your future career in acute care medicine

An overview of ovarian pathology relevant to the OB/GYN clerkship and emergency medicine

This episode will cover the basics of neonatal resuscitation including the NRP algorithm and special focus on areas that are of interest to medical students preparing for their USMLE board exams.

In this focused, high-yield episode, we break down the essentials of procedural sedation in the emergency department—perfect for medical students, early trainees, and anyone wanting a practical overview. From understanding sedation levels to choosing the right drug for the procedure, we cover what you need to know to perform safe and effective sedation in the ED.

Topics include:

✅ When and why to use sedation in the ED

✅ The sedation spectrum—from minimal sedation to general anesthesia

✅ Pre-sedation assessment and risk stratification

✅ Drug choices: propofol, ketamine, midazolam, fentanyl, and more

✅ Monitoring, safety, and managing complications

✅ Post-sedation care and discharge criteria

Whether you’re prepping for a shift, a rotation, or a shelf exam, this episode delivers practical pearls and decision-making frameworks to build your confidence in the ED.

Dr. Conrad is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Internal Medicine in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine

He earned his medical degree from the LSU School of Medicine

He completed a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine, followed by a fellowship in Critical Care Medicine at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. 

Dr. Conrad is board-certified in Emergency Medicine, Internal Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine.