The American journal of emergency medicine
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Pneumonia is a known complication following rib fractures. This study was undertaken to identify clinical and demographic factors associated with the development of pneumonia among trauma patients with rib fractures. ⋯ Risk factors for the development of pneumonia following rib fractures include male gender, higher number of rib fractures, alcohol consumption, and higher rates of intravenous fluid administration during the initial 24 h following trauma.
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The primary objective of this study is to better understand the preferences of the general public regarding cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) education as it relates to both format and the time and place of delivery. ⋯ Respondent preferences regarding the location and style of the training differed little between socioeconomic groups. Instructor-led instruction at local libraries was the most preferred option. CPR education offered at local learning stations during events and at community festivals were least favored among respondents. This study's findings can be used to more effectively structure CPR outreach and educational programs in an attempt to increase rates of bystander CPR.
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Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug indicated for monotherapy and adjunctive therapy of seizures, and complex manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder [1]. While uncommon due to monitoring, VPA can cause toxicity at supratherapeutic levels [1, 2]. ⋯ Recent literature suggests co-administration of meropenem with VPA reduces mean plasma VPA levels by 50-80% [4, 6]. This case report describes the successful use of carbapenems to intentionally lower toxic VPA levels in a 42 year old female that presented to the emergency department with VPA toxicity from an overdose with divalproex sodium.