The American journal of emergency medicine
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Because falls are common among the elderly and are associated with high morbidity and mortality, community surveillance has been recommended. The purpose of this study was to characterize the impact of falls among the elderly on emergency medical transport services (EMS) and to explore the potential for community surveillance of falls through the use of computerized EMS data. Computerized EMS data and United States census data for 1990 for persons aged > or = 65 in Forsyth County, NC, were used to produce EMS transport rates for falls and to make comparisons by age, gender, race, and residence (nursing home vs community). ⋯ EMS summons for older adults reporting a fall accounts for a significant portion (15%) of all transports in this county. Computerized EMS data demonstrated patterns of falls among the elderly that are consistent with known demographic factors. The potential for using computerized EMS data as a practical means of community surveillance should be further explored.
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Nine consecutive patients presenting with acute gouty arthritis were treated with ketorolac 60 mg intramuscularly (IM). The average age was 58. Seven were male, and six were black. ⋯ There were no side effects of the medication. All of the patients were able to leave the treatment area satisfied with their treatment. None of the patients required crutches at discharge.
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The case of a 42-year-old latex-sensitive female who experienced urticaria, pruritus, soft tissue swelling, and significant hypotension during an outpatient barium enema is described. These signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis occurred immediately after enema tip insertion and before infusion of contrast material. ⋯ This patient experienced an IgE-mediated anaphylactic reaction to the latex enema tip. Emergency physicians need to be aware of the spectrum of latex-induced allergic reactions.