Turkish journal of emergency medicine
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In this study, we aimed to determine the causes of overcrowding in the Emergency Department (ED) and make recommendations to help reduce length of stay (LOS) of patients in the ED. ⋯ Similar to EDs in other parts of the world, prolonged length of stay in the ED, delayed laboratory and imaging tests, delay of consultants, and lack of sufficient inpatient beds are the most important causes of overcrowding in the ED. Some drastic measures must be taken to minimize errors and increase satisfaction ratio.
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Blood ketone (beta-hydroxybutyrate) measurements are suggested instead of urine ketone (acetoacetate) measurements in the diagnosis of diabetic ketoacidosis. Urine ketone examination is difficult and time consuming, and may result in an incorrect interpretation. Studies performed in emergency departments on blood ketones are limited. Our objective is to compare urine ketones and capillary blood ketones in patients whose serum glucose levels were ≥150 mg/dl. ⋯ In patients admitted to the emergency department with a blood glucose level of 150 mg/dL or higher, performing a capillary blood ketone measurement instead of a urine ketone measurement was a better predictor of ketonemia.
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In this study, the value of end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) levels measured by capnometry were evaluated as indicators of resuscitation effectiveness and survival in patients presenting to the emergency department with cardiopulmonary arrest. ⋯ ETCO2 levels predicted survival as well as the effectiveness of CPR for patients who received CPR and were monitored by capnometry in the emergency department. As a result, we believe that it would be suitable to use capnometry in all units where the CPR is performed.
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Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is rare but life threatening soft tissue infection characterized by a necrotizing process of the subcutaneous tissues and fascial planes. The Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) score has been verified as a useful diagnostic tool for detecting necrotizing fasciitis. A certain LRINEC score might also be associated with mortality. The aims of this study are to determine risk factors affecting the prognosis and to evaluate the prognostic value of the LRINEC score in NF. ⋯ Pseudomans aeruginosa infection and multiple debridements are related with mortality. The LRINEC score might help predict mortality in NF.