Emergency medicine clinics of North America
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As human-induced climate change warms the planet, its health impacts will affect all populations, but certain groups will be more vulnerable to its impacts. Given its role as a health care safety net, emergency medicine will play a crucial role in addressing these health conditions. Additionally, with its expertise in disaster medicine, interdisciplinary collaboration, and health care systems knowledge, emergency medicine has the potential to lead the health care sector's response to climate change.
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There is a growing incidence of heat-related illnesses due to rising global temperatures. Heat-related illnesses range from mild to severe, with heat stroke being the most critical. ⋯ Prevention is through hydration, appropriate clothing, recognition of high risk medications, and awareness of environmental conditions. Recognizing heat-related illnesses early in the clinical course and implementing rapid cooling strategies reduces morbidity and mortality.
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Drowning is responsible for considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide, and it is estimated that 90% of drownings are preventable. Drowning is defined as "the process of experiencing respiratory impairment from submersion/immersion in liquid." Emergency providers should focus on airway management and rapid delivery of oxygen to interrupt the drowning process and improve patient outcomes. Patients with minimal or no symptoms do not require any specific diagnostic workup, aside from physical examination and 4 to 6 hours of observation prior to discharge. Patients with more severe symptoms may present with rales and foamy secretions, and should be managed with high-concentration oxygen and positive airway pressure.
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This text serves to familiarize readers with animal bites and attacks. Topics include appropriate management of animal bite wounds, postexposure prophylaxis for possible rabies exposures, and unique infectious diseases transmitted through animal vectors. Large mammal attacks are discussed, in addition to the management of smaller animal attacks and exposures.
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Emerg. Med. Clin. North Am. · Aug 2024
ReviewTick-Borne Illnesses in Emergency and Wilderness Medicine.
This review highlights the causative organisms, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of the most common tick-borne illnesses in the United States, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Powassan virus, and alpha-gal syndrome. Tick bite prevention strategies and some basic tick removal recommendations are also provided.