The American journal of emergency medicine
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Over the last decade, tranexamic acid (TXA) has been incorporated into treatment algorithms for a multitude of emergent conditions and the evidence surrounding its role in emergency medicine continues to evolve. ⋯ Tranexamic acid appears to be a reasonable adjunct for the emergency medicine clinician to consider in the management of many hemorrhagic conditions and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor-induced angioedema. Additional high-quality research in these areas is needed to further identity patients who may benefit most from TXA.
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Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Comparison of 4F-PCC and aPCC time to administration and outcomes for oral anticoagulant-related ICH.
Intracranial hemorrhages (ICHs) are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Use of oral anticoagulants are a potential risk factor for ICH, and reversal of the anticoagulant with agents such as Four-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (4F-PCC) or Activated Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (aPCC) is vital to prevent hematoma expansion. The objective of the study was to the compare the time to administration and outcomes of 4F-PCC or aPCC in patients with ICH taking an oral anticoagulant. ⋯ In patients with ICH taking oral anticoagulants, there was no significant difference in the time to administration between 4F-PCC and aPCC. More prospective randomized controlled trials are warranted to determine an ideal reversal time to improve patient outcomes.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of intravenous paracetamol, dexketoprofen and ibuprofen in acute low back pain.
Non-traumatic back pain constitutes roughly 5% of the admissions to emergency departments. This study seeks to compare the efficacy of intravenously administered paracetamol, dexketoprofen, and ibuprofen in patients with non-traumatic acute low back pain. ⋯ Given the obtained data, we did not note a significant difference between intravenous paracetamol, dexketoprofen and ibuprofen with respect to pain efficacy in non-traumatic acute low back pain. Based on the patients' clinical conditions and histories, we concluded that the choice of medication might not change the efficacy of the treatment and patient comfort.
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This narrative review explores current literature base detailing the effectiveness of alternative CPR instruction as compared to traditional CPR courses in the lay population. Assessment of alternative instructional methods found that video self-instruction and simplified CPR formats resulted in equivalent performance of CPR metrics and practical scenario assessment performance, as compared to traditional CPR instruction courses. While additional research is needed to further substantiate the value of self-directed learning, interactive digital, and abbreviated formats, these studies also suggested equivalence in CPR performance compared to traditional courses. In view of the importance of bystander CPR in OHCA outcomes, and the barriers presented by traditional CPR education courses, we recommend that public safety leaders and CPR educators strongly consider the introduction of these programs within their communities and classrooms.
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Review
Clinical update on COVID-19 for the emergency and critical care clinician: Medical management.
Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) has resulted in millions of cases worldwide. As the pandemic has progressed, the understanding of this disease has evolved. ⋯ This review provides a focused update of the medical management of COVID-19 for emergency and critical care clinicians to help improve care for these patients.