Emergency medicine journal : EMJ
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Human error and deficient non-technical skills (NTSs) among providers of ALS in helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) is a threat to patient and operational safety. Skills can be improved through simulation-based training and assessment. ⋯ Our study indicates a lack of simulation-based training and assessment. Pilots and HCMs train and are assessed more frequently than physicians. All professional groups are on call for extended hours, but receive limited training in how to cope with fatigue.
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Observational Study
Admission glycaemia and its association with acute coronary syndrome in Emergency Department patients with chest pain.
This study aims to evaluate admission blood glucose level (BGL) in patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) as a risk factor for a major adverse cardiac event (MACE) on presentation and up to 30 days post discharge. Admission BGL is a prognostic indicator in patients with confirmed acute coronary syndrome (ACS). It is unclear if admission BGL improves the diagnosis and stratification of patients presenting to the ED with suspected ACS. ⋯ Admission BGL is an independent risk factor for a MACE in patients with suspected ACS. Hyperglycaemia should be considered a risk factor for MACEs and consideration be given to its inclusion in existing diagnostic tools.