Critical Care Rounds, Notes, and Use of Consultants

The training of medical students, interns, and residents in busy trauma and critical care services are generally focused on the basic science principles and clinical treatment guidelines required to manage severely injured patients. Often missing in the curriculum is expert guidance regarding the most efficient methods of data collection, patient presentation on rounds, and clear note writing. This chapter provides guidance in these areas, and also suggests techniques for obtaining appropriate assistance and input from consultant specialists.