CJEM
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Kussmaul's sign, the absence of a drop in jugular venous pressure or a paradoxical increase in jugular venous pressure on inspiration, can be evaluated as an indicator of right ventricular myocardial infarction. Right ventricular myocardial infarction complicates 30-50% of inferior myocardial infarctions and is associated with increased mortality when compared to inferior myocardial infarction without right ventricular involvement. Early recognition allows maintenance of preload. We reviewed the diagnostic test accuracy studies for Kussmaul's sign for diagnosis of right ventricular myocardial infarction. ⋯ In the presence of acute myocardial infarction, Kussmaul's sign is specific for acute right ventricular myocardial infarction and may serve as an important clinical sign of right ventricular dysfunction requiring preload preserving management.
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This study aimed to characterize the clinical utilization of tranexamic acid (TXA) by paramedics in British Columbia (BC) for acute major trauma and to quantify the percentage of patients who received TXA among those who met the indications for administration. ⋯ 35% of eligible patients identified in this study received TXA, which is an improvement over rates cited by previous Canadian literature. With further education opportunities for paramedics in BC and other EMS systems, there is potential to continue improving pre-hospital TXA administration rates.