Exam tip: This is a consultant-level exam. For ALL of these algorithms, the exam goes past the basic pathway — know the refractory pathways, the special circumstances, and the small print. ALS special circumstances, refractory anaphylaxis, post-ROSC care, when to stop resuscitation. If you only know the standard algorithm, you'll miss the questions that separate pass from fail.

Exam tip: Recognition of STEMI equivalents and life-threatening arrhythmias often feature. The exam tests specifics — PCI centre outside the window for intervention, what's the next action? Know the timings, the decision points when the standard pathway isn't available, and antiplatelet choices.

Exam tip: Know the stepwise drug management and timings. The exam tests what to do when first-line fails.

Exam tip: DKA: fluids first, then fixed-rate insulin, then potassium. In paediatric DKA, cerebral oedema is the main risk — restrict fluid rate. HHS: slower correction, watch for osmolality.

Exam tip: Head injury comes up every sitting. Know BOTH the adult and paediatric CT algorithms, the anticoagulated patient pathway, C-spine clearance, and when NOT to collar. Trauma questions also rely heavily on ATLS guidelines — refresh yourself on the minutiae, not just the broad primary survey steps.

Exam tip: Know activation criteria, 1:1:1 ratio, TXA within 3 hours. The exam tests when to activate and what to give.

Exam tip: Paediatric rash recognition is high-yield. Know the Traffic Light Table for febrile children. Gillick competence applies from any age — not just 16.

Exam tip: Toxicology questions often start with recognition — from ECG changes, clinical findings, or bloods. But you need to know the management inside out too. Know your toxidromes cold, antidote selection, and the paracetamol nomogram including staggered overdose management.

Exam tip: Cauda equina is heavily tested. Know the red flags and the pathway — when to MRI urgently.

Exam tip: Sedation questions have consistently low pass rates. Know drug choices, capnography is mandatory, discharge criteria, and the stepwise laryngospasm management for ketamine.