Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
-
To determine the effects of aggressive fluid administration vs permissive hypotension on survival, blood loss, and hemodynamics in a model of uncontrolled hemorrhage in which bleeding has been shown to be continuous. ⋯ In this model of continuous uncontrolled hemorrhage, the difference in survival between the animals left hypotensive and the animals receiving fluid resuscitation was not statistically significant. Increases in MAP and CO with fluid resuscitation were transient and were offset by larger volumes of blood loss. In contrast to the aortotomy model (where thrombosis is likely and hypotensive resuscitation has proven beneficial), this model suggests that in continuous bleeding avoiding fluid resuscitation has a much smaller effect on outcome. Much of the benefit from hypotensive resuscitation may depend on having an injury that can stop bleeding.
-
At a time in which the integrity of the medical profession is perceptibly challenged, emergency physicians (EPs) have an opportunity to reaffirm their commitment to both their patients and their practice through acceptance of a virtue-based ethic. The virtue-based ethic transcends legalistic rule following and the blind application of principles. Instead, virtue honors the humanity of patients and the high standards of the profession. ⋯ In addition to the long-recognized virtues of prudence, courage, temperance, and justice, 6 additional virtues are offered: unconditional positive regard, charity, compassion, trustworthiness, vigilance, and agility. These virtues might serve as ideals to which all EPs can strive. Through these, the honor of the profession will be maintained, the trust of patients will be preserved, and the integrity of the specialty will be promoted.
-
Editorial Comment
Life or death: physician-assisted suicide and emergency medicine.