The American journal of emergency medicine
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We aimed to develop a risk score incorporating heart rate variability (HRV) and traditional vital signs for the prediction of early mortality and complications in patients during the initial presentation to the emergency department (ED) with chest pain. ⋯ A risk score incorporating heart rate variability and vital signs performed well in predicting mortality and other complications within 72 hours after arrival at ED in patients with chest pain.
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The cardiac dipolar field is represented by the measured 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) and 3-lead vectorcardiogram (VCG). The objective is to derive the 12-lead ECG and 3-lead VCG from 3 measured leads acquired from only 5 electrodes. ⋯ The 12-lead ECG and 3-lead VCG can be derived accurately from 3 measured leads with high quantitative and qualitative correlations. These derived tracings can be acquired instantaneously and displayed in real time from a cardiac rhythm monitor. This will allow for immediate, on-demand, convenient, and cost-effective acquisition and analysis of the 12-lead ECG and 3-lead VCG in areas of acute patient care.
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The traditional method to identify hemorrhage after trauma has been vital signs-based. More recent attempts have used mathematical prediction models, but these are limited by the need for additional data including a Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma exam, or an arterial blood gas. Shock Index (SI) is the mathematical relationship of the heart rate divided by the systolic blood pressure; the cutoff of >0.9 has been associated with bleeding. ⋯ SI, at a lowered threshold of ≥0.8, can be used to identify trauma patients that will require intervention for hemostasis.
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Heatstroke (HS) is a life-threatening condition, manifested by systemic inflammation and multiorgan failure. Rapid recognition and treatment are life saving. We report a laboratory-oriented characterization of HS by low plasma C-reactive protein (CRP) level and propose its usefulness in distinguishing this type of hyperpyrexia from central nervous system-associated high core temperature. ⋯ Low serum CRP levels characterize non-central nervous system-associated HS. This available laboratory test could identify noninfectious hyperthermic patients upon admission, saving precious time until treatment and avoiding unnecessary diagnostic tests.