J Emerg Med
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We analyzed the impact of three consecutive hurricanes in 2004 on two central Florida Emergency Department (ED) patient volumes and types of presentations. Data were extracted from the hospital database and compared to the previous year. At both EDs visits dropped significantly on the day of all three hurricanes compared to 2003. ⋯ Once weather conditions improved, a dramatic rise in patient census was noted. During the aftermath of the first hurricane a significantly higher number of patients with injuries and carbon monoxide (CO) intoxications was seen, as well as ED visits due to lack of oxygen, electricity or hemodialysis. During the aftermath of a hurricane, EDs should be staffed and equipped to treat greater numbers of patients with acute injuries.
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This was a retrospective analysis of prospective data collected from a study of blood ethanol levels after the use of the alcohol-based hand sanitizer (ABHS). A total of 5 male volunteers were enrolled. ⋯ Measurements upon completion of the study were <5 mg/dL in all 5 study participants and in each of the 10 blood draws regardless of skin preparation technique. This study demonstrates that the use of isopropyl skin prep pads is unlikely to cause significant false-positive blood ethanol levels.
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We present a case of heterotopic pregnancy rapidly diagnosed by an emergency physician. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of an emergency physician using bedside ultrasound to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy present simultaneously with an intrauterine pregnancy. Other unique features of this case include the diagnosis being made on initial evaluation and the patient's lack of risk factors for heterotopic pregnancy. A review of the cases of heterotopic pregnancy reported in the emergency medicine literature, the rising prevalence of the disease, and factors that may facilitate in making the diagnosis are discussed as well.