Academic emergency medicine : official journal of the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
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To compare student performance after Multimedia ACLS Learning System (MM) education compared with that after standard (ST) ACLS education. ⋯ In medical students with no previous ACLS training, structured access to the multimedia ACLS Learning System provides immediate educational outcomes similar to those of a standard ACLS course. Multimedia computer-interactive learning should be enhanced with a short period of hands-on practice.
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To determine the role of bedside renal ultrasonography (US) and plain radiography of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder (KUB) as the initial investigative modality for those patients presenting to the ED with unilateral flank pain and hematuria. The hypothesis was that the renal US + KUB may obviate the need for emergent i.v. pyelography (i.v.P) in a majority of patients. ⋯ The bedside US + KUB has a high sensitivity and can be performed rapidly at the bedside by the EP when compared with i.v.P. This combined modality is an effective screening tool in the initial evaluation of ureteral colic.
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End-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2) monitoring is becoming more common in both the ED and the out-of-hospital setting. Its main use has been as an aid when confirming endotracheal intubation. ⋯ In addition, future uses may include using PetCO2 as an adjunct when monitoring the status of asthma treatment, when making the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism, and when measuring cardiac output noninvasively. This article reviews these specific uses of PetCO2 monitoring in emergency medicine.
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End-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO2) monitoring is becoming more common in both the ED and the out-of-hospital setting. Its main use has been as an aid when confirming endotracheal intubation. However, since CO2 is intrinsically coupled with states of metabolism, circulation, and ventilation, PetCO2 monitoring along with analysis of its capnographic component is becoming increasingly valuable for other uses in the ED. This article reviews the physiology of CO2, the means by which end-tidal CO2 may be monitored, and the components and analysis of the capnogram.
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To assess whether contact with a health care provider or gatekeeper increases the use of an ambulance for patients with acute chest pain. ⋯ Of patients presenting to an ED for evaluation of chest pain, those who made contact with a health care provider were less likely to arrive via ambulance.