Summary of "INI-SS April 2025 AML 1 Paediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care, Dr Kunal speaks to Dr Singaram"

Summary of the Video

Title: INI-SS April 2025 AML 1 Paediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care, Dr Kunal speaks to Dr Singaram

This video is an interview session featuring Dr. Kunal Kashi, who secured the top rank (AML Rank 1) in the INI-SS April 2025 exam for Pediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care. Dr. Singaram, a faculty member, conducts the interview, focusing on Dr. Kunal’s preparation strategies, insights on the exam pattern, and advice for future aspirants.

Main Ideas, Concepts, and Lessons Conveyed

1. Introduction and Background of Dr. Kunal Kashi

Dr. Kunal is from Rajasthan.
Completed MBBS from Jaipur.
MD in Pediatrics from PGI Chandigarh.
Worked as a Senior Resident (SR) in AIIMS New Delhi until April before appearing for the INI-SS exam.
This was his second attempt at the INI-SS exam; he did not appear for NEET SS this time.

2. Approach to Preparation

Focused on clinical learning during MD rather than exam-oriented study.
Believes residency clinical experience is crucial; the exam is an extrapolation of clinical knowledge.
Emphasizes that strong clinical basics and hands-on experience help in answering exam questions confidently.
The exam’s second part (interview/clinical discussion) tests clinical judgment through case scenarios, not just factual recall.

3. Preparation Methodology for MCQs and Exam

Two key aspects:
- Strong subject knowledge (core clinical concepts).
- Practice in applying knowledge under exam conditions.
Importance of practicing MCQs to avoid silly mistakes and improve time management.
Use of question banks and modules (like Marrow Qbank) for self-assessment and identifying weak areas.
Reading Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics as the primary resource.
Focus on all sections: Pediatric Pulmonology, Intensive Care, and General Pediatrics.
Use of recent guidelines (e.g., GINA for pulmonology, PAL 2 guidelines) and medical statistics.
Statistics questions appear both in MCQs and interviews; often overlooked but important.

4. Note-Taking and Revision Strategy

Habit of making notes and underlining textbooks since undergraduate days.
Maintained a concise notebook for essential facts, formulas, and mutations likely to be tested.
Revision is key, especially in the last month before exams.
Avoid learning new topics 7 days prior; focus on revising already studied material.
Maintain a correct sleep schedule and simulate exam timing for practice tests.

5. Mock Tests and Time Management

Mock tests are crucial for:
- Simulating exam environment.
- Improving time management.
- Handling exam pressure.
Advises starting mock tests early, not just in the last month.
Balancing reading and test-taking helps in applying knowledge effectively.

6. Choosing a Super Specialty and Timing of Preparation

Strongly recommends focusing on clinical work during residency first.
Exposure to all pediatric subspecialties helps in identifying one’s true interest or “calling.”
Once the specialty is chosen, start focused preparation along with clinical work.
Passion for the specialty is essential for enduring the demanding nature of the course.
Pediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care combines knowledge of pulmonology and critical care with many procedural skills.
The specialty demands sacrifice but offers immense satisfaction and clinical impact.

7. Importance of General Pediatrics

General pediatrics forms 20-25% of exam questions.
Should not be neglected even when focusing on subspecialty.
Use MCQs and concise resources to cover general pediatrics efficiently.
Strong general pediatrics knowledge can be a differentiating factor in the exam.

8. Advice for Future Aspirants

Start test practice early, even while acquiring knowledge.
Combine clinical exposure, textbook reading (Nelson’s and guidelines), and MCQ practice.
Use platforms like Marrow for question banks and tests to objectively assess strengths and weaknesses.
Passion and interest in the chosen specialty are crucial for success and satisfaction.
Be ready for a hectic schedule and personal sacrifices in pediatric intensive care.
Focus on practical clinical judgment rather than rote memorization.

9. Role of Marrow Platform

Marrow is an effective tool for applying knowledge in exam-like settings.
Helps identify weak areas and reinforces learning through repeated testing.
Should be integrated early in preparation for better performance.

Detailed Preparation Strategy

Initial Preparation:
- Focus on clinical learning during MD.
- Gain hands-on experience in all pediatric subspecialties.
- Identify your specialty interest during residency rotations.
Knowledge Acquisition:
- Read Nelson’s Textbook of Pediatrics thoroughly.
- Study recent guidelines (e.g., GINA, PAL 2) and critical care protocols.
- Cover general pediatrics comprehensively using MCQs and concise resources.
- Include medical statistics for both MCQs and interviews.
Note Making:
- Underline and annotate textbooks.
- Maintain a focused notebook for essential facts, formulas, and mutations.
MCQ Practice:
- Use question banks and modules for self-assessment.
- Revise incorrect questions and related concepts repeatedly.
- Start mock tests early to simulate exam conditions and manage time.
- Adjust sleep and daily routine to match exam timing.
Revision:
- Complete at least one full reading of all materials one month before exam.
- Avoid learning new topics in the last 7 days; focus on revision of strong topics and notes.
- Use last days for strengthening recall and confidence.
Exam Mindset:
- Understand that exam rank reflects application of knowledge, not just knowledge itself.
- Develop clinical judgment skills through case-based learning and practice.
- Balance reading, clinical work, and test practice for holistic preparation.

Speakers/Sources Featured

Dr. Kunal Kashi – AML Rank 1 in INI-SS Pediatric Pulmonology & Intensive Care April 2025, interviewed candidate.
Dr. Singaram – Pediatrics SS faculty at Marrow, interviewer and host.

This interview provides comprehensive guidance on how to prepare for super specialty exams in pediatric pulmonology and intensive care, emphasizing clinical experience, focused reading, continuous testing, and passion for the specialty.