Give Me a Break! Reframing Breaks as a Clinical Skill in Emergency Medicine
In emergency medicine, the culture of endurance can present a barrier to the basic self-care that makes endurance and optimal cognitive performance possible. This panel discussion addresses the paradox of break-taking: while the science supports it, the system resists it. From residents to departmental leaders, we'll explore role-specific strategies, share successful models, and provide attendees with the language, tools, and confidence to make rest a regular, respected part of clinical care. Join us to reshape the culture - one pause at a time.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the webinar, engaged participants will be able to:
- Describe cultural, logistical, and systemic barriers to taking breaks during emergency medicine shifts.
- Evaluate strategies and case examples that successfully promote break-taking in diverse settings.
- Apply at least one role-specific intervention to normalize and support breaks within their clinical environment.
Panelists and Moderators
- Saadia Akhtar
- Al'ai Alvarez
- Amanda Deutsch
- Vytas Karalius
- Amy Kontrick
- Maria Moreira
- James O'Shea
- Wendy Sun
- Julie Tondt
- Maia Winkel
- Victoria Zhou
- Rohit Anand
- Sheridan Rea