The American journal of emergency medicine
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Cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST) is a serious condition that carries with it a high rate of morbidity and mortality. ⋯ An understanding of CST can assist emergency clinicians in diagnosing and managing this potentially deadly disease.
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Transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a condition commonly evaluated for in the emergency department (ED). Therefore, it is important for emergency clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease. ⋯ An understanding of literature updates concerning TIA can improve the ED care of patients with TIA.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Use of Esmarch bandage does not increase peripheral vein size in healthy volunteers: A randomized clinical trial.
Ultrasound is used for peripheral intravenous (PIV) cannulation in patients with difficult landmark-guided IV access in the Emergency Department. Distal-to-proximal application of an Esmarch bandage on the target limb has been suggested as a method for increasing vein size and ease of cannulation. ⋯ This study showed that the use of an Esmarch bandage does not increase basilic vein size in healthy volunteers but is associated with a mild increase in discomfort.
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This study aims to assess compliance with medical protocols and outcomes, as well as determine the consistency in clinical practice across different Pediatric Emergency Departments (PED) in public sector hospitals of a low-middle income country. ⋯ The overall mortality rate was 2% in these five emergency departments and the medical protocol was followed in every third patient out of fourth in those three diseases. The survival rate till ED disposition was doubled in those patients for whom medical protocols were followed as compared to those for non-compliant. The majority of PED demonstrated good compliance with standardized practices. However, this study identified areas that require attention and further training, especially early recognition and management of septic shock where compliances seem alarmingly low. Our data analysis indicates that adherence to guidelines has resulted in uniformity in clinical practice and the provision of early evidence-based quality care. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement in ensuring consistent adherence to medical protocols in pediatric emergency settings and thus improving patient outcomes.
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Multicenter Study Observational Study
Afebrile status at the time of emergency department visit is associated with delayed antibiotic therapy in patients with sepsis (revised).
To determine whether there is a difference in antibiotic administration time and prognosis in afebrile sepsis patients compared to febrile sepsis patients. ⋯ Afebrile sepsis patients were associated with higher 28-day mortality compared to their febrile counterparts and were delayed in receiving antibiotics. This underscores the need for improved early detection and treatment strategies for the afebrile sepsis patients.