Emergency medicine journal : EMJ
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The aim of this study was to identify performance indicators thought to reflect the quality of patient care in the emergency department. ⋯ 36 potential indicators of good quality of care in the emergency department in the UK have been identified.
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To achieve consensus in all phases of chemical incident planning and response. ⋯ The use of a Delphi study and subsequent syndicate group discussions achieved consensus in aspects of all phases of chemical incident planning and response that can be translated into practical guidance for use at regional prehospital and hospital level. Additionally, areas of non-consensus have been identified where further work is required.
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Review Comparative Study
Best evidence topic reports. Is intravenous aminophylline better than intravenous salbutamol in the treatment of moderate to severe asthma?
A short cut review was carried out to establish whether intravenous salbutamol or intravenous aminophylline offers the quickest and least complicated treatment for patients with moderate to severe asthma not responding to inhaled therapy. Altogether 71 papers were found using the reported search, of which nine 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 best papers are tabulated. A clinical bottom line is stated.
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A short cut review was carried out to establish whether hypertonic or isotonic saline improved the outcome most in patients with severe head injury. Altogether 66 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 best papers are tabulated. A clinical bottom line is stated.
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Review Case Reports
Hypokalaemic thyrotoxic periodic paralysis in an Asian man in the United Kingdom.
A large number of ethnic Chinese and other oriental populations are living in the West because of the modern day migration of people. Hypokalaemic periodic paralysis attributable to thyrotoxicosis is a common presentation in an Asian emergency department. It is uncommon in the white communities. ⋯ Thyrotoxic features are often masked or absent. Life may be threatened because of severe hypokalaemia and therefore a prompt diagnosis of this condition in the certain ethnic group presenting with weakness and hypokalaemia is essential. Thyroid function studies are mandatory in these cases.