emDOCs.net Emergency Medicine (EM) Podcast Episode 122: Performing Under Pressure
Jul 7, 2025
Zachary Aust, an expert in human factors and performance under pressure, dives into the art of thriving in high-stress situations. He challenges the myth of 'clutch performers' by discussing how stress impacts cognitive functions and teamwork. Aust emphasizes the importance of mental and physical preparation, urging listeners to see challenges as opportunities. He shares innovative training methods, including 3D simulations and deliberate practice, to ensure professionals can effectively manage crises and maintain composure when the pressure is on.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Build Mental Models and Offload
- Develop mental models and decision pathways for critical scenarios before crises occur.
- Use cognitive aids like checklists and drug cards to offload mental load during emergencies.
Emergency Reflex Action Drills
- Create emergency reflex action drills for initial crisis moves to buy time when cognition is impaired.
- Focus drills on logistics like kit location and setup, not just clinical strategy, to improve efficiency.
Visualize to Build Readiness
- Use visualization to mentally rehearse procedures and scenarios with detail and emotion.
- Visualization activates brain areas similar to doing actions physically and builds crisis readiness.