The American journal of emergency medicine
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Optimal external laryngeal manipulation: modified bimanual laryngoscopy.
External laryngeal manipulation (ELM) is commonly used to facilitate laryngeal view during direct laryngoscopy. We evaluated the effectiveness of the newly modified bimanual laryngoscopy, which involves a direct guidance of an assistant's hand by a laryngoscopist, to optimize laryngeal exposure during direct laryngoscopy compared with conventional bimanual laryngoscopy. ⋯ The modified bimanual laryngoscopy is more effective for obtaining the optimal laryngeal view on the first attempt compared with the conventional bimanual laryngoscopy.
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The Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction (TIMI) score has shown use in predicting 30-day and 1-year outcomes in emergency department (ED) patients with potential acute coronary syndrome. Few studies have evaluated the TIMI score in risk stratifying patients selected for the ED observation Unit (EDOU). Risk stratification of patients in this group could identify those at risk for significant cardiac events. Our goal was to evaluate TIMI use for risk stratification in this population and compare outcomes among differing scores. ⋯ The TIMI risk score may serve as an effective risk stratification tool among chest pain patients selected for EDOU placement. Patients with intermediate-risk by TIMI may be considered for inpatient admission and/or more aggressive evaluation and therapy.
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Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has long been recognized as the leading cause of traumatic death and disability. Tremendous advances in surgical and intensive care unit management of the primary injury, including maintaining adequate oxygenation, controlling intracranial pressure, and ensuring proper cerebral perfusion pressure, have resulted in reduced mortality. However, the secondary injury phase of TBI is a prolonged pathogenic process characterized by neuroinflammation, excitatory amino acids, free radicals, and ion imbalance. ⋯ Here, we present a case that was intentionally treated with substantial amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3FA) to provide the nutritional foundation for the brain to begin the healing process following severe TBI. Recent animal research supports the use of n-3FA, and clinical experience suggests that benefits may be possible from substantially and aggressively adding n-3FA to optimize the nutritional foundation of severe TBI patients and must be in place if the brain is to be given the opportunity to repair itself to the best possible extent. Administration early in the course of treatment, in the emergency department or sooner, has the potential to improve outcomes from this potentially devastating public health problem.
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Comparative Study
A community-based comparison of trauma patient outcomes between D- and L-lactate fluids.
Ringer's lactate is used for patient resuscitation. Lactate naturally occurs in 2 stereoisometric forms, D- and L-lactate, that are added to fluid in equal amounts. Animal studies have demonstrated potentially deleterious effects of d-lactate on vital organs. Using an administrative database, we examined whether D- or L-lactate volume was associated with mortality in patients with trauma. ⋯ Because early administration of D-lactate was associated with mortality and ventilation, physicians and policy makers should recognize the advantages of L-lactate and encourage research on the quality of d- and l-lactate in case mixes beyond trauma.
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Randomized Controlled Trial
Isolated sternal fractures treated on an outpatient basis.
The aim of this study is to investigate the need for admission of patients with isolated sternal fracture (ISF) by prospectively and randomly discharging or admitting them. ⋯ Patients with ISF can be discharged safely as soon as investigations are completed. Extensive myocardial assessment is not needed on the posttraumatic period. Myocardial involvement seems unlikely in patients with ISF, who can be treated with oral analgesics.