Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps
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Medical Support Troop Bravo (MST Bravo) provides third line medical support for the United Kingdom Battle Group currently deployed on operation Grapple 2 in Bosnia Herzegovina. Standing operating procedures for the initial assessment and resuscitation of all casualties are based on the protocols taught on Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and Battlefield Advanced Trauma Life Support (BATLS) courses. ⋯ This has led to an appraisal of CBA removal and the identification of a drill for rapid, safe and reliable means of undressing without jeopardy to the integrity of the spine. The method is described.
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Case Reports
Complications of prophylactic intercostal tube drainage--including tension pneumothorax.
A case is presented of tension pneumothorax associated with intercostal tube drainage. Complications of intercostal tube drainage are reviewed.
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Many studies have drawn attention to deficiencies in the management of major trauma, both in the UK and elsewhere. One area that has received little attention is the documentation of such cases in the Emergency Room. When outcome may be sub-optimal, documentation assumes greater importance if advances are to be made in the organisation of trauma care. ⋯ It unifies the recording of vital signs, whilst acting as an assessment and resuscitation template. By ensuring no life-threatening illness is missed it is likely to improve patient survival. The document can act as a basis for teaching and a medico-legal record, whilst providing the necessary data for quality assurance and outcome audit.
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Plasmodium falciparum malaria poses an increasing risk to travellers to West Africa. The development of chloroquine resistant in West Africa has further compounded the risk. ⋯ These cases highlight the danger of the missed or late diagnosis; the need for chemoprophylaxis, even in emigrants; the threat posed to the international traveller by malaria; and the problem of chloroquine resistant Plasmodium falciparum (CRPF) malaria from West Africa. The position of Plasmodium falciparum malaria in West Africa is reviewed along with the problem caused by chloroquine resistance.