Can J Emerg Med
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Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a crucial yet weak link in the chain of survival for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. We sought to understand the determinants of bystander CPR and the factors associated with successful training. ⋯ We evaluated and classified the potential impact of interventions that have been proposed to improve bystander CPR rates. Our results may help communities design interventions to improve their bystander CPR rates.
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US emergency personnel cared for 106% more patients in 1990 than they did in 1980, and national emergency department census data show that 60%-80% of those patients presented with non-urgent or minor medical problems. The hiring of nurse practitioners (NPs) is one proposed solution to the ongoing overcrowding and physician shortage facing emergency departments (EDs). ⋯ The medical community should further explore the use of NPs, particularly in fast track areas for high volume departments. In rural areas, NPs could supplement overextended physicians and allow health centres to remain open when they might otherwise have to close. These strategies could improve access to care and patient satisfaction for selected urban and rural populations as well as make the best use of limited medical resources.
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The optimal approach to airway management in penetrating neck injuries (PNIs) remains controversial. The primary objective of this study was to review the method of endotracheal intubation in PNI at a Canadian tertiary trauma centre. Secondarily, we sought to determine the incidence of PNI in our trauma population and to describe the epidemiologic elements of this population. ⋯ There is clear variability of airway management in PNI. We believe that such patients represent a heterogeneous group where the attending physician must have a conservative yet varied approach to airway management based on the individual clinical scenario.
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To clarify the benefits, risks and timing of glucose control and intensive insulin therapy in several groups, specifically the neurologic, cardiac and septic populations of patients, commonly seen in the emergency department. ⋯ Hyperglycemia is associated with adverse outcomes in acutely ill neurologic, cardiac and septic patients, but it remains unclear whether this is a causative association. Glucose control and intensive insulin therapy may be useful in some patient subgroups; however, controlled trials of aggressive glycemic control have provided insufficient evidence to justify subjecting patients to the real risks of iatrogenic hypoglycemia. We recommend a cautious approach to the control of glucose levels in acutely ill emergency department patients, with a target glucose of below 8 to 9 mmol/L.
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Etomidate has become one of the most commonly used induction agents in the United States during emergency department (ED) endotracheal intubation. While etomidate may be popular, concerns have been raised about possible adrenal suppression and subsequent adverse effects. In this paper we critically evaluate the recent literature and perspectives regarding the effect of etomidate on the adrenocortical system.