Also known as: Quartz dust lung disease
Rich Shelford presents with severe silicosis from occupational exposure cutting quartz countertops, initially misdiagnosed as recurring pneumonia. The condition has progressed to the point requiring bilateral lung transplant, which becomes available during his hospitalization. The case is complicated when his daughter's sex work is revealed, causing family conflict that temporarily threatens the transplant.
Rich's initial presentation involves fainting from severe coughing, resulting in a head injury requiring wound dressing. This syncope is a manifestation of his underlying severe pulmonary disease.
Also known as: Brain tumor
Sal presents after being hit by a car he didn't see, which leads to discovery of a large tumor interwoven with his brain stem, cranial nerves, and upper spinal cord. Dr. Park performs an extremely complex transoral robotic (TCR) surgery to remove the tumor, despite the high risk of leaving the patient permanently paralyzed or unable to speak.
Also known as: Brain bleed
Sal sustained a skull fracture and large subdural hematoma when hit by a car, which required surgical evacuation before the brain stem tumor could be addressed.
Also known as: Fractured skull
Part of Sal's initial trauma from being struck by a car, requiring repair along with evacuation of the associated hematoma.
Also known as: Gambling addiction
Sal's gambling addiction has destroyed his family relationships and finances. Dr. Park makes Sal's commitment to treatment a condition for performing the life-saving surgery, though the episode ends with Sal relapsing and placing new bets.
Also known as: Poor weight gain
Baby Steve is not gaining weight as quickly as expected despite frequent breastfeeding. Dr. Hyland recommends supplementing with formula, which creates emotional conflict for Lea who feels inadequate as a mother.
Also known as: Fear of blood
Medical student Dom faints twice at the sight of blood during his surgical rotation, despite his background as a college football player. He learns coping techniques to manage the phobia so he can continue pursuing his goal of becoming a family doctor.