The American journal of emergency medicine
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The aims of this study are to evaluate the cardiac safety of the Stinger S-200 Conducted Energy Weapon Device (CED) (Stinger Systems, Tampa, Fla) on a human-sized pig model and to test the effect of various commercially available CEDs, specifically the Stinger S-200, TASER M26 (Taser International, Scottsdale, Ariz), and TASER X26 on pacemaker function. ⋯ In this model, the application of the S-200 in various orientations across the heart did not result in any sustained abnormal cardiac rhythms. None of the tested CEDs adversely affected the functioning of the tested pacemaker. Stinger Systems has now replaced the S-200 with the S-200T with a different output.
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Few studies specify the methods used to measure ST-segment elevation (STE). We therefore assessed differences in electrocardiography results depending on STE measurement methods for patients with inferior acute myocardial infarction (MI) and right ventricular infarction. ⋯ In patients with inferior MI, STE depends on the method of measurement, indicating a need for the standardization of measurements.
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Adherence to The Joint Commission (TJC) Core Measures benchmarks is required for hospital accreditation, and data are publicly reported as an indication of hospital quality. Published approaches to date for adhering to the pneumonia antibiotic timing (PN5c) Core Measure have shown moderate to limited success in reaching high levels of compliance. ⋯ Implementation of a structured intervention that includes early physician triage, a screening tool for immediate imaging and reporting, and electronic record-facilitated compliance review effectively improves TJC PN5c compliance to high levels.
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The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate electrocardiograms (ECGs) before and after running a half marathon to characterize the changes that occur after exertion. Echocardiograms were also done postrace on selected runners. ⋯ Our study suggests that ECG abnormalities and changes can occur in distance runners, but their significance is unclear.
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The aim of the study was to assess the ease-of-use, safety, and usefulness of an automated external chest compression device for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. ⋯ The device was easy to use in routine emergency practice and of particular value in facilitating access to extracorporeal life support or non-heart-beating organ procurement. These uses should be itemized in all OHCA studies.