The Acute Mind

Problem Representation

Definition

Problem representation is the foundation of effective clinical reasoning – the starting point of any case. It is the concise summary of a patient’s clinical presentation. It allows us to organise complex information into a structured script from which we can generate & prioritise differentials and communicate our ideas clearly.

How to Apply

• Who is the patient – demographics, epidemiology, risk factors
• When did this happen – pattern of illness inc. duration & tempo
• What is the clinical syndrome – signs, symptoms, findings

Also use semantic qualifiers – describing clinical features with contrasting terms (e.g. acute vs chronic, intermittent vs continous, localised vs generalised, symmetrical vs assymetrical, progressive vs stable).

Remember – clear & concise summary (not a lengthy one)!