Home of Medicine with Dr Amie Burbridge

Is it ok to cancel an investigation that someone else has requested? Ben and I reflect on this as we analyse a case of shortness of breath and weight loss.  Can you get the diagnosis before me?If you enjoy this podcast, please share, rate and and review.We love to hear from you!

Does haemoptysis alarm you?In this episode, Ben solves the case of a gentleman presenting with haemoptysis and weight loss. We unpack how investigate and manage this case. Can you figure out the cause before Ben does?If you enjoy the episode, please share it with colleagues, and don't forget to rate and review the podcast! 

Ben and I are back with another fantastic episode, with my knowledge once again being tested by Ben. This is a very special episode all the way from a very sunny Florence. This is our very first live recording of the podcast with a studio audience, at the European Congress of Internal Medicine. We have audience participation, back pain, DOACs and as always we reflect on the all important clinical reasoning and why we do what we do!Please get in touch with any questions or feedback a.burbridge@nhs.net

Welcome back to the Home of Medicine. In this episode, Ben and I dive into the causes of headaches, uncovering an unexpected diagnosis that will keep you thinking. This fascinating internal medicine case is one you won't want to miss.Plus, Ben takes a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about his medical school days, and we revisit the fundamentals with a quick discussion on clubbing.Have thoughts or cases to share? Email us at a.burbridge@nhs.net

Abdominal Pain – What Could It Be?In this episode of Home of Medicine, Ben and I dive into the complexities of abdominal pain—a symptom with countless potential causes. We explore the importance of history taking, the Framing Effect, and how cognitive biases can influence clinical decision-making.We also discuss the value of peer-to-peer consultant observations—could this improve patient care and professional growth?And, as always, we reflect on our own mistakes along the way!Got thoughts or feedback? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at a.burbridge@nhs.net.

Chest Pain & a Critical Decision: Our Most Memorable Case YetIn this episode, Ben and I discuss a high-stakes Same Day Emergency Care Case—a patient presenting with chest pain and the critical decision I made that could have led to devastating consequences.This case has stayed with me, and we break down the challenges of clinical decision-making, the weight of responsibility in acute care, and the moments that shape us as medical professionals.Join us for an in-depth discussion on chest pain assessment, missed diagnoses, and the tough calls that define a career in medicine.Get in touch a.burbridge@nhs.net

Seizures, Weakness & the Lumbar Puncture Debate – A Tough Emergency CaseIn this episode, Ben and I tackle a complex Emergency Department case—a patient presenting with seizures and left arm weakness. It's a tricky scenario that sparks a key debate: Should we perform a lumbar puncture?We break down the decision-making process, discuss the challenges of diagnosing neurological conditions in Acute Medicine, and reflect on the bigger question: How is Acute Medicine Perceived? Join us for an insightful discussion on seizures, stroke mimics, and the evolving role of Acute Medicine.

Navigating Challenging Conversations in MedicineWe're back for the second episode of Season 3! In this episode of Home of Medicine, Ben and I explore how to handle tough conversations in healthcare.  Reflecting on navigating challenging consultations, Ben walks us through a case of fatigue: What happens when your patient doesn't want to go home? What can you do if they insist on admission? Ben explains the HALT Criteria, and, as ever, Amie never stops learning with Ben.You'll also hear practical strategies for staying empathetic, maintaining professionalism, and communicating effectively in high-stakes situations.Subscribe to Home of Medicine and leave us a review to share your thoughts on this episode!Please get in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.net

New year, new season!We are back with some great episodes for 2025. In this episode we reflect on a case of shoulder pain and how this has impacted the way that I practice every day. Ben has a light bulb moment!Get in touch a.burbridge@nhs.net or find us on Linkedin/Bluesky@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode Ben and I delve into fluid assessments during the acute take and how to manage hyponatraemia. We reflect on how to manage an ED admission with incidental finding of a low sodium level.  How would you manage this? Did we do things right or wrong? Would you have done anything differently?For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

It's the middle of the night and a patient presents with seizures. What would you do and what could be causing this? Ben and I are baffled, can you figure out what is going on?........For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I go back to our roots and discuss a patient who presented with a headache to the Same Day Emergency Care unit. Things aren't always as they seem.  Can you guess what is going on before Ben?We discuss how bias affects our decision making, especially when we are tired. For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I reflect on the complexities of a case of lethargy and Immunotherapy. We discuss the importance of cross-speciality working and how we can learn so much from each other at work. ** I mistakenly say metastatic multiple melanoma, instead of metastatic melanoma at the beginning of the episode, apologies **For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I discuss shortness of breath, and I completely miss the diagnosis. Can you figure out what is going on?I resort to AI to help .......For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.netFind us on X @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode we discuss cranial nerve palsies and I once again face my fear of neurology.  We reflect on what imaging is best at the front door. Ben is quoting Steps lyrics yet again; 5,6,7,8 .............For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.netFind us on X @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode Ben and I discuss tiredness and its many possible causes. We reflect on the power of a mentor and the positive, lasting effect they can have on a career. For more clinical reasoning; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch at a.burbridge@nhs.netFind us on X @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this bitesize episode Ben and I are back and we discuss our favourite medical mnemonics. A great way to revise and recap on common medical conditions. Please rate, review and share Head to https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php for more learning Follow us on Twitter @amieburbridge@DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I are  back with another case of foot drop, yet with a very different history and diagnosis. Ben tests my neurology skills (again), and I flounder (again). We reflect on diagnostic momentum and confirmation bias and how this may affect a patient's journey in hospital. Please rate, review and share the podcast. Contact us at;  a.burbridge@nhs.netFor more clinical reasoning check out https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

We are back with a very challenging case of a headache and I, for once, am completely lost for words. Ben is officially a genius in my eyes.Ben resorts to quoting Steps lyrics! Coming soon - Home of Medicine YouTube Channel - Watch this space!Follow us on X @amieburbridge @DrBenLovellFor more clinical reasoning based education take a look at https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpContact me at a.burbridge@nhs.net or Homeofmedicine999@gmail.com@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this bite size episode Ben and I discuss reverse ward rounds and how they can be beneficial as a training tool. We also reflect on peer review and maybe this is something we should all be doing?.Get in touch;  a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this captivating episode, Ben and I are back discussing bilateral leg pain. We reflect on the importance of taking a break at work for prevention of exhaustion, rather than waiting until exhaustion sets in and how a well timed break can improve clinical decision making. Contact us at;  a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this first ever bitesize episode Ben and I discuss the art of giving feedback during a busy day at work and we reflect on how small changes at work can lead to bigger changes.Contact me at a.burbridge@nhs.netPlease rate, review and share this podcast.@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode join Ben and I as we discuss a case urinary retention in pregnancy. We explore possible causes and reflect on what to do when we don't know what to do. We reflect on acknowledging the limitations of our competencies and knowledge. For more clinical reasoning head to  https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpGet in touch; a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode Ben and I discuss a patient I first saw last year, and we reflect on what happened next. We discuss kindness, openness and honesty and we encourage everyone to take a mid ward round coffee break to help develop team work and wellbeing. Please rate, review and share this podcastFor more learning check out https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.phpContact us at;a.burbridge@nhs.netTweet @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

This episode is a repost of season 2, episode 7, in which Ben and I discuss a case I saw over a busy weekend.  In the next episode we will release an update of the case, as we consider the final diagnosis. Please rate, review and share!a.burbridge@nhs.net@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

We are back to discuss a case of foot drop and I reflect on my self confessed neurophobia. Ben and I share our thoughts about investigations in the acute setting. Subscribe, share and join us as we unravel the mystery of the sudden foot drop. Visit https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php for interactive e-learning modules to develop your clinical reasoning. Contact me on a.burbridge@nhs.net @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Join Ben and I as we discuss causes of delirium and get stumped by blood gases. For more clinical reasoning visit https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Welcome to the latest episode as Ben and I navigate fever of unknown origin. We discuss the impact of the prior diagnoses on clinical reasoning and how diagnostic momentum can have a big influence at work. For more learning check out https://www.efimacademy.org@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Join Ben and I as we discuss headaches, decision fatigue and recency bias. We reflect on the importance of reflection and how it's OK not to be OK. For more learning;Check out Ben's book "Eureka: Clinical Skills, Diagnostics and Reasoning". Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Join us for another fantastic episode, as Ben and I discuss 'the swollen leg'. We navigate a challenging case with the usual discussion of decision making and how it can be affected by where you see a patient. Whether you're a health professional or simply curious, this episode promises to be both informative and entertaining. Don't miss as we unravel the mysteries of swollen legs together!@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode I am joined by Professor Nicola Cooper, a physician and and expert in clinical reasoning education, we dissect a case of abdominal pain. We reflect on night brain and how being sleep deprived can affect our decision making processes and how the night team should never be criticised. Clinical Reasoning in Medical Education group (www.creme.org.uk)Wiley.com. (n.d.). ABC of Clinical Reasoning, 2nd Edition | Wiley. [online] Available at: https://www.wiley.com/en-ae/ABC+of+Clinical+Reasoning%2C+2nd+Edition-p-9781119871538 [Accessed 25 Jan. 2024].Murthy, V.K., O'Brien, B. and Dhaliwal, G. (2018). An Inquiry Into the Early Careers of Master Clinicians. Journal of Graduate Medical Education, 10(5), pp.500–506. doi:https://doi.org/10.4300/jgme-d-18-00208.1.@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

In this episode I am joined by the fantastic Sam, for the pre PACES podcast. I am put in the hot seat as Sam and I talk through a challenging case of shortness of breath and chest pain on a night shift. We discuss overcoming your fears, the importance of reflection and the value of a collateral history. For more from Sam listen @ https://www.prepacespodcast.com/Visit www.efimacademy.org for interactive e-modules to help develop your clinical reasoning.@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Welcome to another enlightening episode with Ben and I.  Ben presents a case with an unexpected blood result and we share our experiences and insights as to how we would handle the situation.  Subscribe, share, and join us as we try and unravel the unexpected blood result. Visit www.efimacademy.org for interactive e-modules that can help develop your clinical reasoning. Happy learning!@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I are back and we discuss feeling overwhelmed in ED. Ben, as ever, helps me process a challenging day and how to improve my palliative care skills.   We talk through diagnosing dying and reflect on if we have ever been taught how to do it. @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Amie discusses a man who presented with chest pain, and how things could have been very different if she hadn't sent him home. Ben, as usual provides excellent analysis of the situation as we discuss cognitive biases and time pressures at work. Check out https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php for more interactive learning @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

Ben and I are back and we discuss a case of a 35 year old male presenting with palpitations. Ben takes us back to the 1980's, where he discusses the importance of the CAST trial, Cardiac Arrhythmia Supression Trial. We work through the case and how different we approach things in the ED department. @amieburbridge @DrBenLovell@amieburbridge @DrBenLovell

A very special episode with Ben and Dr Zack Ferguson,  a trainee in acute internal medicine. We discuss a case of abnormal liver function tests and debate if we should we admit to investigate further.   For further learning visit; https://www.efimacademy.org/login/index.php

This episode I am joined by Dr Dror Dicker,  Dror has published many articles on obesity and in this episode we go to basics and discuss what obesity is and the pathophysiology.  Dror is head of Internal Medicine & the Obesity Clinic at Tel Aviv University and Associate Professor and he is president of the Israeli Association for the Study of Obesity.Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

Ben and I are back. We discuss a case of chest pain and leg weakness that I saw over a weekend. The all important cognitive biases are discussed and Ben works through this challenging case. Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

Dr Ben Lovell joins me for another fascinating case discussion. This time I am in the hot seat, Ben presents a case of hypertension and I work through how I would approach the case, reflecting on those all important cognitive biases. Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

This episode comes all the way from a very snowy Northern Sweden.  I was at the European School of Internal Medicine - Winter School, and was very fortunate to meet Dr Fraz Mir, a Consultant Physician in Acute Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK. He is also an Affiliated Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge.In this episode we discuss a case of an individual presenting to hospital after taking an overdose.  I apologise for the background noise, we were recording in a hotel. Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

Amie and Ben discuss a case of shortness of breath and the importance of a complete physical examination.Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

Dr Ben Lovell is back and we discuss a case of collapse.  A presenting complaint that has so many potential diagnoses, we begin to unpick how to investigate. Ben and I also discuss 'Gut Instinct' and is it a valuable tool in our diagnostic tool box?.Coming soon - Transcripts for all podcastsVisit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

In this episode I am joined by Dr Steven Laird and we discuss common and less common cases that we see in Internal Medicine.  We delve into how to investigate unilateral respiratory consolidation and possible causes. Coming soon - Transcripts for all podcastsVisit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!

Season 2 is here. The Home of Medicine team are back with more clinical conundrums and interesting cases.In this episode Amie is in the hot seat and Dr Steve Laird is putting Amie through her paces regarding a patient who is a returning traveller with diarrhoea.    Can you pick up the clues from Steve before Amie?Coming soon - Transcripts for all podcastsVisit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules.The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning!@amieburbridge 

Influenza season is coming and this episode Amie is joined by Dr Steven Montgomery Laird FRCP, MPH. Dr Laird is a Consultant Medical Microbiologist working at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire. We discuss how a patient with influenza may present, how to treat and the importance of vaccination and the potential cardiovascular complications of flu. Coming soon - Transcripts for all podcastsVisit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules. The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning! Click to go to complete the e-learning module on influenza on the EFIM Academy

Amie remembers a patient that she saw on the acute take with chest pain, Ben works through his diagnoses and they reflect on how things aren't always as they seem. Visit www.efimacademy.org for further interactive e-modules. The EFIM Academy aims to develop your clinical reasoning by working through real life cases. Happy learning! 

Have you ever wondered how to investigate a genital rash?  Amie and Dr Steve Laird are here to demystify rashes as they talk through a case presenting to the general internal physicians. They also discuss how journalistic reporting of conditions could influence our diagnoses. Can you get the diagnosis before Amie?

Amie and Ben are back and discussing a mysterious case of back pain. All is not as it seems when Ben reviews an individual with thoracic back pain.   They discuss pyjama paralysis and Amie wants to bring back the ward day room. Can you figure out what is going on before Ben and Amie?

Amie and Ben are back! This time they discuss potential causes of sudden paralysis. Amie discusses her neurophobia and Ben discusses his fear of being called to review patients on the gynae ward. Want more from Ben? Take a look at his excellent book;Eureka: Clinical Skills, Diagnostics and Reasoning; By Ben Lovell, Mark Lander and Nick Murch

In this episode I am joined by Professor Andrew Elder, the current President of the Royal College of Physicians, Edinburgh, UK.   Professor Elder has extensive experience in bedside teaching and was the Medical Director of the MRCP (UK) exams. In this enlightening episode, we discuss bedside medicine and how it has been affected by the pandemic.   What can we do to recover bedside education, or has it been changed forever.  Does good bedside education play an important role  in preventing medical errors?Coming soon Season 2...............