European journal of emergency medicine : official journal of the European Society for Emergency Medicine
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Abnormal biochemical measurements have previously been described in runners following marathons. The incidence of plasma sodium levels outside the normal range has been reported as 31%, and the incidence of raised creatinine at 30%. This study describes the changes seen in electrolytes and creatinine in collapsed (2010-2019 events) and noncollapsed (during the 2019 event) runners during a UK marathon. ⋯ In this study, incidence of a raised creatinine was higher than previously reported. However, the significance of such a rise remains unclear with a similar rise seen in collapsed and noncollapsed runners, and resolution noted within 24 h. Abnormal sodium concentrations were observed infrequently, and severely abnormal results were not seen, potentially reflecting current advice to drink enough fluid to quench thirst.
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The time factor in diagnosis and management of a deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities (LE DVT) is of increasing importance in the era of crowding of emergency departments (ED). Current techniques used to detect LE DVT include a two-point regional compression ultrasound (rCUS), yet assessments are usually performed only during office hours. Outside office hours ultrasonography is postponed and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) prescribed. ⋯ Emergency physicians show comparable agreement in diagnosing LE DVT using rCUS when compared to radiologists. Average time benefit is over an hour, thereby reducing unnecessary waiting and improving time to disposition. ED residents demonstrated similar results in both agreement and time-saving.
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The aim of this study was to determine whether written and video instructions improved the recall of how to use analgesics correctly in parents of children discharged following assessment in the emergency department (ED). ⋯ In our study, we observed that the recall of the correct use of analgesics was increased in participants who had been given written instructions at discharge.