Emergencias
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To evaluate the correlation between variations in ultrasound-measured diaphragm movement and changes in the arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO2) after the start of noninvasive ventilation (NIV). ⋯ In patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure, the increase in range of diaphragm movement 15 minutes after starting NIV is associated with a decrease in PCO2 after 1 hour.
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Observational Study
[Injuries from pepper spray used for self defense: analysis of 15 cases managed in an emergency chemical decontamination area].
We analyzed epidemiologic and clinical characteristics, treatment received, and clinical course in cases of pepper spray injury treated in the chemical decontamination area of an emergency department over a 5-year period. A total of 15 patients with a mean (SD) age of 25 (8.3) years were included. Thirteen were men and 53% were foreign-born. ⋯ Outcomes were good and there were no complications in any of the cases. We conclude that pepper sprays are being used as an aid to self defense in muggings in our community. Decontamination measures have priority as they alleviate symptoms and prevent long-lasting effects.
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To explore circadian variation in the effectiveness of percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) to treat ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) To explore the effects of circardian variation on infarct extension and in-hospital complications. ⋯ A time of onset of STEMI between 6 AM and 12 PM predicts the ineffectiveness of PTCA and greater infarct extension but not in-hospital complications.
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To estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection detected by routine testing of patients seeking care in an emergency department and to describe the characteristics associated with new HIV-infection diagnosis. ⋯ The prevalence of undiagnosed HIV infection in our emergency department was high at 0.6%. The rate of patient acceptance of routine HIV testing was high. Strategies that target improving the detection of undiagnosed HIV infection are advisable.