Articles: emergency-department.
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Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) are the most reported diseases in the United States, and emergency departments (ED) serve a population presenting with increased infection risk. However, identifying patients for whom sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening is appropriate requires accurate sexual history reporting. ⋯ Given that reported sexual activity and age are the only criteria for routine female screening, and that homosexual activity is one of the few screening criteria for males, our results show that a substantial proportion of ED patients eligible for screening may not be identified by reliance upon general sexual history questions.
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This retrospective chart audit examined the demographics, investigations, management and outcomes of adult patients with diabetes mellitus presenting to Canadian emergency departments (EDs). ⋯ Patients with diabetes presenting to an ED with hypoglycemia consume considerable healthcare resources, and practice variation exists. Emergency departments should develop protocols for the management of hypoglycemia, with attention to discharge planning to reduce recurrence.
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The treatment of acute peripheral finger injuries is part of the daily routine of surgeons in emergency departments. This article presents the most common forms of peripheral finger injuries and the specific diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. The injuries include incision and tear injuries, injuries to the nailbed, distal extensor tendon injuries, severed flexor tendons of the distal joint, bite injuries, high-pressure injection injuries and amputation injuries of the distal phalanx of fingers. ⋯ Pathogenic organisms are detectable in more than 80 % of bite wounds so that prophylaxis and therapy of infections are of special importance. An adjuvant antibiotic therapy is necessary for infections as well as for high-pressure injection injuries. It is also important for the treating physician to recognize when a hand surgeon must be involved.