PBL requires the integration of basic science knowledge with clinical knowledge for problem solving and decision in medicine.

PBL is about uncertainty in decision making.

...ability to identify strengths, deficiencies, and limits in one's knowledge base

• What are the gaps in your knowledge?
• What do you need to know or learn?

PBL is about Finding and Applying Knowledge

...locate, appraise, and assimilate evidence from scientific studies related to patients' health problems

• Consult appropriate resources based on the kind of information needed.
• Always appraise the quality of information you find prior to using it.
• Assess applicability of information/evidence for specific patient care needs.
• Reflect on outcomes of care and adjust your approach to the same or similar issues accordingly.

START with what you know.

• Chief complaint (what is it and what "system" does it relate to? Chest pain & shortness of breath - Cardiovascular or Respiratory?)
• History (medical, surgical, social)
• Physical (appearance, attitude)
• Vital signs (are they within normal ranges? If not, what does that indicate?)
• Other labs (are they within normal ranges? If not, what does that indicate?)

What FOUNDATIONAL knowledge do you need? (anatomy - normal or abnormal, organ function, abnormal pathophysiology, drug mechanim of action)

What CLINICAL knowledge do you need? (differential diagnosis, physical evaluation of..., diagnostic tests to rule out or rule in, treatment of acute issue, management of  chronic issue)

What is it you are looking for/needing/wanting to do?