Emergency Medicine

Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh | Head of Emergency Department | VelMed Hospital

What is Emergency Medicine?

A Career in Emergency Medicine is very intriguing. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find information about What Emergency Medicine actually is. Most pages on the internet just talk about How to get into Emergency Medicine. Just like you would normally not trust a non Doctor with names of medicines, you should also not trust opinions about Emergency Medicine from non professionals.

Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh has worked in Emergency Medicine for 3 years & 2 months. Here is how Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh detailed Emergency Medicine:

Emergency medicine is the medical specialty concerned with the care of illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention. Emergency physicians care for unscheduled and undifferentiated patients of all ages.

How Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh got into Emergency Medicine?

After completing my MBBS & MEM, I started practicing in Emergency Medicine. In 2018, I joined VelMed Hospital as the Head of Emergency Department.

Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh's Talk on Emergency Medicine

Navigating the Fast-Paced World of Emergency Medicine Emergency medicine is a thrilling yet demanding field designed for healthcare professionals who thrive in high-pressure environments. Emergency physicians, like Dr. Saurabh Kumar Singh, who currently heads the department at Wellmed Hospital, play a crucial role in diagnosing and stabilizing patients during critical moments, often referred to as the "golden hours." This article blends insights from Dr. Singh’s experiences and structured knowledge about the essential aspects of emergency medicine, shedding light on its importance, education required, skills needed, and the positives and challenges faced in this field. What Is Emergency Medicine? Emergency medicine is a specialized branch of healthcare focused on diagnosing and treating acute illnesses and injuries that require immediate attention. Physicians operating in this field deal with patients from diverse backgrounds and health conditions, necessitating rapid assessment and intervention. Dr. Singh emphasizes the commitment to providing timely and efficient care to stabilize patients before they can be transferred for further treatment. This immediacy is vital as the outcome of critical conditions can change rapidly, making the role of an emergency physician pivotal in saving lives. Education Golden Hour Practice The concept of the "golden hour" in emergency medicine emphasizes the critical importance of the first hour following a traumatic injury or onset of severe illness. Understanding how to act swiftly during this period can significantly influence patient outcomes. Dr. Singh highlights the urgency in establishing a provisional diagnosis swiftly, which is essential for effective management and timely intervention. This education informs every emergency physician’s training, underscoring the need for prompt action amidst chaos. Evidence Made Practice Evidence-based medicine is the foundation upon which emergency medical interventions are built. According to Dr. Singh, it involves utilizing data and research to guide clinical decisions, ensuring the treatment plan is both effective and scientifically supported. For instance, if a specific drug has demonstrated superior outcomes for a condition, that evidence dictates its use over alternatives. This reliance on data empowers physicians to provide the best possible care based on the latest research. Provisional Diagnosis A provisional diagnosis is a critical tool used by emergency physicians to determine the probable cause of a patient’s symptoms during an initial assessment. Dr. Singh provides a compelling example: if a patient with a history of coronary heart disease presents with unconsciousness, the physician must quickly ascertain whether the underlying cause is cardiac-related or something else entirely. This skillful deduction can dictate immediate life-saving measures, making training in provisional diagnosis a fundamental aspect of emergency medical education. Every Expertise Emergency physicians must possess a broad knowledge base covering various fields of medicine, as they encounter a plethora of conditions daily. Dr. Singh notes that understanding the critical aspects of multiple branches ensures that emergency physicians can competently address whatever presents in the emergency room. This level of expertise allows for rapid evaluation and triage, ensuring that the most critical patients receive the immediate attention they deserve. Behaviour Science Behavioral science plays an integral role in emergency medicine, particularly in communication and patient interaction. Dr. Singh mentions the importance of being able to counsel both patients and families about serious prognoses and potential outcomes, which can be a daunting task. Effectively conveying complex information requires empathy, clarity, and sensitivity—skills that can be crucial in times when families are facing the distress of a loved one in dire condition. EMS Service Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are a vital component of emergency medicine, integrating pre-hospital and hospital care. Physicians like Dr. Singh are often called to the scene of accidents, bringing not only medical equipment but also the ability to assess both the patient and the surrounding environment quickly. The unique challenges of EMS, such as managing a chaotic scene or dealing with the public, highlight the necessity for emergency physicians to be adaptable, communicative, and decisive in their actions. Skills Quick Decision Making In emergency medicine, the ability to make swift, informed decisions can mean the difference between life and death. Dr. Singh describes the need to identify the most pressing concern for each patient quickly, particularly in chaotic situations where multiple emergencies arise simultaneously. This skill is honed through practice and experience, allowing physicians to prioritize interventions effectively. Counselling & Communication Strong communication skills are essential for emergency physicians. Dr. Singh emphasizes the necessity of helping patients and families understand the severity of health issues, as many may not grasp the critical nature of their condition. By articulately conveying information and showing empathy, physicians not only provide clarity but also support families during incredibly stressful times. Life Saving Interventions Training in various life-saving procedures is fundamental for emergency physicians. Dr. Singh notes that they must be proficient in securing airways, placing central lines, and performing other emergency interventions that can stabilize patients throughout their treatment journey. Mastery of these techniques is crucial, as the effectiveness of immediate actions can greatly impact patient outcomes. Pressure Handling Operating in a high-stress environment with multiple urgent cases requires adept pressure handling skills. Dr. Singh illustrates this through the experience of managing several trauma cases simultaneously, where quick and accurate triage is paramount. The ability to remain calm and organized amid chaos is critical, and it is a skill that emergency physicians develop over time. Modern Medicine Practice Emergency medicine is continuously evolving, with new protocols and treatment modalities emerging regularly. Dr. Singh points out that keeping abreast of these advancements is essential for effective practice. Emergency physicians are encouraged to engage in continuous education and training to ensure they employ the most current and evidence-based methods in their care. Clinical Observation Keen observational skills are necessary to extract a comprehensive patient history quickly. Dr. Singh explains that understanding a patient’s past medical, social, and family histories can prompt provisional diagnoses without extensive testing. This skill underscores the importance of holistic patient assessment in emergency settings, allowing for better targeted interventions. Positives Highly Demanding Profession Emergency medicine is a highly respected and demanding field globally, appreciated for its complexity and the skills required. Dr. Singh notes that working in this area has become increasingly vital, garnering respect from peers and society alike. The dynamic nature of emergency medicine ensures that no day is ever the same, keeping practitioners engaged and motivated. Community Interaction Emergency physicians enjoy a unique interaction with their communities, often seeing a diverse array of cases. Dr. Singh highlights that this not only enhances their clinical acumen but also contributes to a deeper understanding of public health concerns and prevailing health issues in the community. Such engagement fosters relationships that are critical for preventative healthcare initiatives. Self Satisfaction There is immense personal satisfaction derived from saving lives and making an impact during critical moments. Dr. Singh describes the fulfillment that comes from successfully navigating chaotic situations and receiving gratitude from patients and families, which is incredibly rewarding. This emotional aspect of the profession motivates many to remain steadfast in their commitment to emergency medicine. Monetary Potential The financial rewards of being a physician in emergency medicine are noteworthy. Dr. Singh points out that emergency physicians are among the highest compensated specialists in the medical field, reflecting the demanding nature of their work and the critical skills required. This aspect not only bolsters the profession's appeal but also acknowledges the dedication of those who choose this path. Challenges Lack of Awareness One significant challenge facing emergency medicine is the lack of public understanding of the role of emergency physicians. As Dr. Singh notes, many patients are unaware of the qualifications and training these professionals undergo to manage critical situations. Improvement in public awareness could lead to more effective emergency care by ensuring patients access medical help in a timely manner. Working in Remote Areas Emergency physicians often find themselves in remote locations where resources and equipment may be severely limited. Dr. Singh shares that treating patients in under-resourced environments presents unique challenges that test the adaptability and resourcefulness of medical professionals. These conditions necessitate innovative thinking and make swift assessment even more critical. 24/7 Availability Emergency medicine requires professionals to be on call nearly around the clock, facing unpredictable work hours and possibly enduring long shifts filled with emergencies. Dr. Singh highlights that this can lead to burnout, emphasizing the necessity for self-care and support systems within the medical community to nurture well-being among emergency physicians. Stretching the Limit The limitless nature of the emergencies seen in this field forces physicians to stretch their capabilities constantly. Dr. Singh points out that patients may arrive outside the golden windows, necessitating creative solutions and interventions that could challenge typical medical protocols. This dynamic requires emergency physicians to remain flexible, knowledgeable, and always prepared. Dealing with the Department Emergency physicians work in a highly collaborative environment, often interacting with multiple departments within a hospital to provide comprehensive care. Dr. Singh illustrates that this requires excellent teamwork and communication skills, as well as the ability to coordinate with various specialists efficiently. Managing these interactions, particularly in high-stress situations, can be demanding but is essential for optimal patient care. A Day In The Life Of An Emergency Physician Dr. Singh’s day begins at around 9 AM, when he conducts rounds in the emergency department to assess patients and determine necessary interventions. The unpredictability of emergency medicine means he must be ready for anything—a peaceful morning can quickly turn into chaos with multiple trauma cases arriving at once. His job requires constant vigilance and adaptability, as any moment could bring a mass casualty situation or a series of critical emergencies that demand immediate attention. In summary, emergency medicine is a demanding but immensely rewarding career, filled with opportunities to make vital impacts on patients' lives during their most vulnerable moments. As illustrated through Dr. Saurabh Kumar Singh's experiences, this field requires a unique blend of skills, education, and a willingness to face challenges head-on. With a commitment to continuous learning and a focus on patient care, emergency physicians can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the healthcare landscape.

Install the LifePage App to:

(for Free) Watch Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh’s full Emergency Medicine Career Talk

₹ Do a Self Assessment on Emergency Medicine to calculate your Dream Index, which is defined as:

According to Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh your chances of success in Emergency Medicine is __%

Access your personalized Dream Index Report which will have all your Dream Indices sorted in descending order.

How to get into

Emergency Medicine?

If you are want to get into Emergency Medicine, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Emergency Medicine is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Emergency Medicine, what education and skills you need to succeed in Emergency Medicine, and what positives and challenges you will face in Emergency Medicine.

Finally, you will get a Career Plan stating which Courses, Certifications, Trainings and other Items you need to do in the next 7 years to become world’s best in Emergency Medicine.

LifePage Career Plan

14 hour personalized guidance program

Your LifePage Career Advisor facilitates your guided introspection so that you systematically explore various Career options to arrive at a well thought out Career choice.

Next: your Advisor helps you figure out how you will get into your chosen Career and how will you develop the skills needed for success in your Chosen Career.

LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

Links for this Talk

Head of Emergency Department Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/saurabhkumarsingh

LifePage Career Talk on Emergency Medicine

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/emergency-medicine

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20190129-0003

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9F-I68wWL4

(Emergency Medicine, Dr Saurabh Kumar Singh, Velmed Hospital, Head of Emergency Department, Doctor, Surgeon, ICU, Critical Care)

Similar Talks

Radiology

Dr Meenal
Radiologist | CMI Hospital

[ 2 years Experience ]

Radiology is the medical discipline that uses medical imaging to diagnose and treat diseases within the bodies of animals, including humans

"I did MBBS from Bharati Vidyapeeth, Pune and after that did MD (Radiology) from NAPSIMS Nagpur. I am working at CMI Hospital as Radiologist since 2018."

Urology

Dr Ranjit Chaudhary
Doctor | Own Practice

[ 12 years & 3 months Experience ]

Urology, also known as genitourinary surgery, is the branch of medicine that focuses on surgical and medical diseases of the male and female urinary-tract system and the male reproductive organs. Organs under the domain of urology include the kidneys, adrenal glands, ureters, urinary bladder, urethra, and the male reproductive organs (testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, and penis).

"After completing my super specialization in Urology in 2007, I started practicing Urology in Bhopal. My name is featured in Limca Book of World Records for dissecting the largest Adrenaline tumor by Laparoscopy."

Urology & Renal Transplant

Dr Deepak Garg
Senior Consultant | VelMed Hospital

[ 20 years Experience ]

Urology, also known as genitourinary surgery, is the branch of medicine that focuses on surgical and medical diseases of the male and female urinary-tract system and the male reproductive organs. A Renal Transplant is a surgical procedure to place a healthy kidney from a live or deceased donor into a person whose kidneys no longer function properly.

"After completing my education, I started working at various hospitals such as RML Hospital, New Delhi, AIIMS and MAX Hospital, Dehradun. In 2018, I joined VelMed Hospital, Dehradun as a Senior Consultant of Urology."

NICU Nursing

Ashna Singh
Nurse | CMI Hospital

[ 5 years Experience ]

A neonatal nurse is a Registered Nurse (RN) that works in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and assesses, monitors, and cares for medically fragile newborns. In addition to caring for premature newborns, NICU nurses may care for medically complex infants up to one year of age in some facilities

"I did Nursing from Florence Nightingale College of Nursing after that I started working as a NICU Nurse at CMI Hospital in 2015."

Pathology

Sasha
Consultant Pathology | CMI Hospital

[ 1 year Experience ]

Pathology is the study of the causes and effects of disease or injury. The word pathology also refers to the study of disease in general, incorporating a wide range of bioscience research fields and medical practices.

"I did MBBS and MD (Pathology) from Himalayan Institute, Dehradun. I am working at CMI Hospital as Consultant Pathology since 2019."

Internal Medicine

Anshika Jain
Consultant | CMI Hospital

[ 5 years Experience ]

Internal medicine or general internal medicine is the medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of internal diseases. Physicians specializing in internal medicine are called internists, or physicians in Commonwealth nations.

"I did MBBS from Institute of Medicine, Nepal and MD (Medicine) from Himalayan Institute Dehradun. After that I started working as a Consultant at CMI Hospital."