Emergency medicine journal : EMJ
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Perforation of the pharynx and upper oesophagus after stab wounds to the neck is easily overlooked because of the relative lack of symptoms. A case is reported in which pneumomediastinum occurred after an apparently trivial neck wound.
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Waiting times in emergency departments (EDs) are an important government priority. Although substantial efforts are currently being made to reduce waiting times, little attention has been paid to the patients' view. We used qualitative methods to explore patients' perspectives on waiting times and other approaches to rationing and prioritisation. ⋯ Interviewees expected to wait and accepted the need for prioritisation, although they were reluctant to engage in judgements regarding prioritisation. They supported the re-direction of patients with certain non-urgent complaints. However, they perceived a need for more explanation and information about their wait, the system, and alternative services.