Articles: emergency-services.
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Curr Opin Crit Care · Jun 2024
ReviewAntimicrobial stewardship and molecular diagnostics: a symbiotic approach to combating resistance in the ED and ICU.
This review aims to evaluate the incorporation of rapid molecular diagnostics (RMD) in antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) in the management of patients in the emergency department (ED) and intensive care unit (ICU), highlighting a shift from conventional microbiological diagnostic tests to RMD strategies to optimize antimicrobial use and improve patient outcomes. ⋯ RMD hold great value in simplifying patient management and mitigating antimicrobial exposure, particularly in settings with high levels of antimicrobial resistance where the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials is high. While the impact on the use of antimicrobials is significant, the impact on patient outcomes is not yet clear. Successful integration of RMD in clinical decision making in the ED and ICU requires a team approach and continued education, and its use should be adapted to the local epidemiology and infrastructure.
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Most children receive emergency care by general emergency physicians and not in designated children's hospitals. There are unique considerations in the care of children that differ from the care of adults. ⋯ These studies address pediatric resuscitation, traumatic arrest, septic shock, airway management, nailbed injuries, bronchiolitis, infant fever, cervical spine injuries, and cancer risk from radiation (Table 1). The findings in these articles have the potential to impact the evaluation and management of children (Table 2).
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Curr Opin Crit Care · Jun 2024
ReviewBoarding in the emergency department: challenges and mitigation strategies.
Herein, we conducted a review of the literature to better understand the issue of prolonged emergency department (ED) boarding by providing an overview of the current evidence on the available causes, consequences, and mitigation strategies. ⋯ Considering the characteristics of healthcare systems, such as funding mechanisms, organizational structures, delivery models, access and quality of care, the challenge of ED boarding of critically ill patients requires a nuanced and adaptable approach. Solutions are complex but must involve the entirety of the hospital system, emergency department, staff adjustment, and education.
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Pediatric emergency care · Jun 2024
ReviewAddressing the Healthcare Needs of Transgender Youth in the Emergency Department.
Transgender is a term that refers to individuals who identify with a gender that is different from the sex assigned to them at birth. In addition to gender dysphoria, many transgender youth experience a number of challenges including homelessness, violence, and mental health problems such as suicidality. ⋯ In this CME review article, we define relevant terminology then discuss best practices for clinical encounters involving transgender youth in the emergency department. Finally, we review gender-affirming care including behavioral modifications, hormones, and surgeries for transfeminine and transmasculine individuals.