CJEM
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The Covid-19 pandemic has required new protocols for endotracheal intubation mandating cumbersome personal protective equipment and modifications to prior intubation procedures. We assessed the success and complications of endotracheal intubation under such protocols. ⋯ New pandemic endotracheal intubation protocols did not result in a decrease in first-pass success, or first-pass success without complications.
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Trauma resuscitation at dedicated trauma centers typically consist of ad-hoc teams performing critical tasks in a time-limited manner. This creates a high stakes environment apt or avoidable errors. Reporting of errors in trauma resuscitation is generally center-dependent and lacks common terminology. ⋯ Overall, our systematic review identified 39 unique error types in trauma resuscitation. Identifying these errors is imperative in developing systems for improvement of trauma care.
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Anaphylaxis is a condition that warrants an observation period after symptoms resolution to detect rare but life-threatening delayed complications. There is a need for evidence to identify patients who would benefit from prolonged observation time. The purpose of this review was to identify factors that may influence the need for longer observation in the emergency department. ⋯ Observation time should be based on the provider's best estimation of the risk of biphasic anaphylaxis, although no single factor can predict their occurrence. The identified factors will allow the development of an early discharge screening tool.
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In 2016, based on recommendations of the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), Choosing Wisely Canada released transfusion guidelines for patients with Iron Deficiency Anemia. The goal of the present study was to examine the number of transfusions given in Calgary emergency departments (EDs) before and after the release of these guidelines. ⋯ Our data suggest that the number of potentially avoidable transfusions has not decreased since the release of Choosing Wisely Canada guidelines and local educational initiatives. This may be due to the fact that there is a pre-existing down trend in the number of transfusions provided.