J Emerg Med
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Orally administered anticoagulants that offer alternatives to warfarin have been developed in recent years and are currently available for reduction of stroke risk in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation, the prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism after hip or knee replacement surgery, and the treatment and secondary risk reduction of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. ⋯ The introduction of alternative oral anticoagulants will require emergency procedures that differ in some respects from those currently in place for warfarin and it will be necessary for Emergency Medicine professionals to become familiar with these procedures. Clinical stabilization of the bleeding or at-risk patient remains the emergency physician's priority.
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Hydrogen peroxide is a common household product. It is clear and odorless making it easy to confuse with water, especially when improperly stored. Concentrated formulations are also available for consumer purchase. ⋯ We present this case to increase awareness of the dangers of hydrogen peroxide ingestion in children. Fortunately, the child in this case recovered fully, but emergency physicians should be aware of the potential consequences and therapeutic options.
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Comparative Study
Evaluating the effect of emergency residency training on productivity in the emergency department.
Resident productivity, defined as patients seen per unit time, is one measure that is used to assess the performance and educational progress of residents in the emergency department (ED). One published study suggested that emergency residency training (EM) does not improve productivity compared with that in other specialties, including internal medicine (IM). ⋯ The first EM training year leads to a significant change in productivity that separates EM from IM residents. This contradicts the previous assertion that non-EM residents have the same productivity as EM residents in the ED.
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Bedbug infestations are increasing across North America and Europe, with more people presenting to Emergency Departments for treatment. Physicians cannot provide substantive treatment for people affected by bedbugs. ⋯ It may be possible that ivermectin could help eradicate, suppress, or prevent a bedbug infestation.