Jackson named one of 11 Golden Stethoscope winners

David Jackson, MD, Family Medicine, is one of 11 CU faculty to win a 2024 Golden Stethoscope Award - his in the category of Outstanding Use of Physical Exam Skills.

The very short version of what happened, from Jackson: “I had a patient whose entire left hemi-abdomen was spleen, which I noticed during my exam and ordered the CT to prove it. I then shared with my med student and had her repeat the exam, highlighting that the ED PA's reported normal soft abdominal exam might have missed the fact that the left side was solid and right side soft with a clear step-off line right down the middle,” he said.

The longer and more effusive version of what happened, from Jackson’s grateful medical student: “I am writing to enthusiastically nominate Dr. David Jackson for the Outstanding Use of Physical Exam Skills Award. During my preceptorship with Dr. Jackson, I witnessed first-hand his exceptional diagnostic abilities and his unwavering commitment to patient care. One particular case stands out as a testament to his extraordinary skill and dedication.

“A patient was referred to us based on abnormal lab results, yet no previous provider had identified the underlying issue despite her multiple visits for related concerns. Dr. Jackson, through his thorough and meticulous physical examination, discovered that the patient had an extremely enlarged spleen—so significant that on the CT scan it extended into her pelvic region. This condition, known as splenomegaly, was the largest he had ever encountered.

“Remarkably, neither the patient nor her other healthcare providers had detected this massive enlargement.

“Dr. Jackson's keen attention to detail and his comprehensive physical examination revealed this critical diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of a full and careful physical exam. His diligence not only uncovered the splenomegaly but also expedited the patient’s referral to oncology for urgent treatment. Without Dr. Jackson's expertise and thorough approach, this life-threatening condition might have gone undiagnosed for much longer, potentially resulting in severe consequences for the patient.

“Moreover, Dr. Jackson ensured that this learning experience was shared. He gave me the opportunity to palpate the enlarged spleen myself, providing a rare and invaluable hands-on learning experience. This not only deepened my understanding of physical examination techniques but also highlighted the importance of thoroughness and diligence in patient care.

“Furthermore, my experience under Dr. Jackson's mentorship extended beyond textbook knowledge. While our clinical skills training taught us various maneuvers, it was Dr. Jackson who demonstrated how to adapt these skills to real-world hospital settings, particularly with bed-bound patients. I learned how to perform reflex tests and other critical examinations while patients were lying down—skills that are invaluable in a hospital environment.

“In conclusion, Dr. Jackson is an exemplary physician whose remarkable diagnostic abilities and dedication to teaching significantly benefit both his patients and his students. His exceptional use of physical exam skills makes him truly deserving of the Outstanding Use of Physical Exam Skills Award.”

Congratulations, Dr. Jackson! Ten other metro-area physicians also won Golden Stethoscope Awards this year. Please click the button below for the full list.