J Emerg Med
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Although cardiac dysrhythmia is common in patients with thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP), high-degree atrioventricular (AV) block complicated by cardiogenic shock, even under KCl supplementation, is rarely described. ⋯ A paradoxical fall in serum K(+) concentration with potentially life-threatening complication is still underappreciated in patients with TPP on KCl supplementation. Early recognition and prompt therapy prevent untoward consequences.
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Interphalangeal joint dislocations of toes are relatively rare and can generally be treated by closed reduction. ⋯ Even such a minor trauma as a lesser toe injury deserves thorough physical examination, and when indicated on radiological imaging, as significant injuries can easily be overlooked.
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Patients' satisfaction is a common parameter tracked by health care systems and Emergency Departments (EDs). ⋯ This retrospective study demonstrated a strong association between post-visit patient call back and LR. Further prospective study with control for co-variables is warranted.
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Right-sided diverticulitis is a rare source of right lower quadrant pain in Western society; however, it is quite common in Asian societies. Right-sided diverticulitis presents very similarly to appendicitis, with right lower quadrant pain, fever, nausea, and laboratory abnormalities, and is often seen in young patients. ⋯ Severe right lower quadrant pain in young patients of Asian descent can be right-sided diverticulitis. Right-sided diverticulitis is a benign condition managed medically that mimics appendicitis. CT imaging seems to be the best way to avoid unnecessary surgery.
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Risk factors for exacerbation of congestive heart failure have not been consistently validated. ⋯ Patients with chronic congestive heart failure who presented to the Emergency Department with acute decompensated heart failure were no more likely to report consuming a greater number of high-sodium foods in the 3 days before than were patients with chronic congestive heart failure who presented with unrelated symptoms. On the other hand, those who presented with acute decompensated heart failure were significantly more likely to report nonadherence with medications.