J Emerg Med
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Malpractice in emergency medicine is of high concern for medical providers, the fear of which continues to drive decision-making. The body of evidence evaluating risk specific to emergency physicians is disjointed, and thus it remains difficult to derive cohesive themes and strategies for risk minimization. ⋯ There are consistent diagnoses that are associated with increased litigation incidence. A combination of mitigation approaches may assist providers in mitigation of malpractice risk.
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Rapid tranquilization of agitated patients can prevent injuries and expedite care. Whereas antipsychotics and benzodiazepines are commonly used for this purpose, ketamine has been suggested as an alternative. ⋯ Ketamine provides rapid sedation for undifferentiated agitated patients and is associated with higher intubation rates when used by ground Emergency Medical Services paramedics, compared with ED or air medical transport patients. Other side effects are common but usually self-limiting.
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Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease resulting in polyarthritis and systemic effects that may result in morbidity and mortality. ⋯ Prompt recognition of the acute complications of RA is crucial to treat these conditions. This review investigates these issues in a succinct manner for emergency clinicians.
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Acute heart failure (AHF) is a common presentation to the emergency department (ED), with the potential to cause significant morbidity and mortality. It is important to tailor treatments to the appropriate type of heart failure. ⋯ AHF is a condition that requires rapid assessment and management. Understanding the appropriate management strategy can allow for more targeted treatment and improved outcomes.