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Differential diagnosis template

Use this compact, copy-pasteable differential diagnosis template you can fill quickly at bedside or in notes:

  • Patient / presentation: age, sex, chief complaint, time course, vitals, key exam findings.
  • Immediate life-threats to rule out now (e.g., tension pneumothorax, MI, sepsis) and immediate actions.
  • Top 3–5 differential diagnoses (ranked by likelihood).
    • For each: supporting features (HX/PE), contradictory features, and how likely (high/medium/low).
  • Priority investigations (urgent first-line tests with timeframe — e.g., ECG + troponin now; CXR within 1 hour; labs within 30 min).
  • Initial management steps per top diagnosis (empiric meds or procedures, doses if common) and contraindications.
  • Red flags that require escalation or admission.
  • Decision: treat, test, or observe? Include timeframe for reassessment and specific trigger to change plan.
  • Documentation: communication with patient/family, follow-up plan, and who is responsible.

Would you like a version pre-filled for a specific complaint (chest pain, abdominal pain, fever, etc.)?

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