The American journal of emergency medicine
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Clinical Trial
A descriptive study of myoclonus associated with etomidate procedural sedation in the ED.
Myoclonus is a well-recognized side effect of etomidate when given in induction doses for rapid sequence intubation. Most of the data reported on myoclonus with emergency department (ED) sedation doses are reported as a secondary finding. ⋯ Myoclonus associated with sedation doses of etomidate was common but rarely interfered with the completion of a procedure.
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Case Reports
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis as an initial manifestation of primary antiphospholipid syndrome.
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare neurologic manifestation of antiphospholipid syndrome. We report a case of a 49-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department with recurrent episodes of transient clumsiness of the left upper extremity. ⋯ Thrombophilia screen disclosed positive lupus anticoagulant. In this case report, we aim to emphasize the significance of recognizing an unusual presentation of antiphospholipid syndrome.
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Swimming is one of the most popular recreational activities in the United States. The objective of this study was to investigate the epidemiology of the complete spectrum of injuries associated with swimming and swimming pools treated in US hospital emergency departments. ⋯ The observed increase in injuries among individuals older than 7 years underscores the need for increased prevention efforts, including education about safe swimming practices, supervision, and environmental modifications.
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A 40-year-old healthy woman presented to the emergency department with a complaint of intermittent hematemesis, despite the absence of usual factors associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (ie, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, alcoholism, etc). The patient was diagnosed with a Dieulafoy lesion. This is an uncommon finding, which clinicians must be familiar with and maintain in the differential diagnosis because the consequences of this disease process are grave. It is vital to properly diagnose this condition and be familiar with the treatment.
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There are several causes of ST-segment elevation (STE) besides acute myocardial infarction (MI). ⋯ The diagnosis of false-positive STEMI is not uncommon. Detailed clinical evaluation and electrocardiogram interpretation may avoid partly unnecessary catheterization laboratory activation.