Emergency medicine journal : EMJ
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To describe the aetiology and outcome of apparent life threatening events (ALTE) presenting to an emergency department (ED), and to assess the value of an initial investigation protocol. ⋯ ALTEs presenting to the ED may remain as a single, unexplained event or be attributable to numerous causes, ranging from minor to serious. Knowledge of the commoner causes and factors associated with higher risk could result in a more targeted approach, improving the decision making process and benefiting both infants and parents.
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A short cut review was carried out to establish whether activated charcoal is effective in iron overdose. Altogether 17 papers were found using the reported search, of which only one was relevant. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of this paper are shown in table 4. A clinical bottom line is stated.
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To define the ability of UK paramedics to recognise ST segment elevation using a prehospital 12 lead electrocardiogram (ECG). ⋯ UK paramedics can recognise ST elevation using a 12 lead ECG. Radio transmission of an ECG may not be necessary to pre-alert the hospital.
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A short cut review was carried out to establish whether antibiotics reduce the incidence of infection after venomous snake bite. Altogether 60 papers were found using the reported search, of which three presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these papers are shown in table 3. A clinical bottom line is stated.
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Airway management in the emergency department and the role of anaesthetists and emergency physicians is reviewed. The training for emergency physicians in the advanced airway skills of rapid sequence induction and tracheal intubation is discussed.