Annals of emergency medicine
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To describe the experience of an emergency medical services system with the use of liberal indications for prehospital pediatric endotracheal intubation. ⋯ In a setting where paramedics practice with close medical direction, applying liberal indications for pediatric intubation and permitting the use of succinylcholine allowed paramedics to intubate children of different ages and diagnoses.
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To describe alcohol and drug use patterns in patients presenting to first aid stations at major rock concerts. ⋯ Minor trauma and the use of illicit drugs and ethanol were common in spectators presenting to first aid stations at these concert events. Physicians and paramedical personnel working at rock concerts should be aware of the current drug use patterns and should be trained in treating such drug use.
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Review Case Reports
Unexpected sudden death in a young pregnant woman: unusual presentation of neurosarcoidosis.
We report the case of a young, previously healthy woman who was brought to the emergency department in cardiac arrest and who died despite resuscitative efforts. An autopsy revealed the cause of death to be sarcoidosis of the brain stem and cerebellum with secondary obstructive hydrocephalus. Neurosarcoidosis presenting as sudden death has not previously been reported. A review of the medical conditions that may precipitate sudden death in young adults is presented.
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To assess the utility of ultrasonography, quantitative serum beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) level, history, and physical examination in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy (EP) in the emergency department. ⋯ To prevent delayed diagnosis of EP in urban centers, pregnant women with abdominal pain or vaginal bleeding require evaluation by transvaginal ultrasonography. Indeterminate ultrasonography findings necessitate further evaluation. A beta-hCG level of 1,000 mIU/mL or lower should heighten suspicion of EP.