J Emerg Med
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Cold-water immersion is the gold standard for field treatment of an exertional heat stroke (EHS) casualty. Practical limitations may preclude this method and ice sheets (bed linens soaked in ice water) have emerged as a viable alternative. Laboratory studies suggest that this is an inferior method; however, the magnitude of hyperthermia is limited and may underestimate the cooling rate in EHS casualties. ⋯ The cooling rate in EHS casualties with initial Tc ≥ 39°C was approximately double that reported in laboratory studies. The observed mortality rate was comparable with casualties treated with cold-water immersion. Our data suggest that ice sheets provide a viable alternative when practical constraints preclude cold-water immersion.
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The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 has a predilection for the upper airways, causing symptoms such as sore throat, hoarse voice, and stridor. ⋯ Croup was prevalent during the Omicron wave, atypically affecting patients ≥6 years of age. COVID-19-associated croup should be added to the differential diagnosis of children with stridor, regardless of age. © 2022 Elsevier Inc.
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Airway foreign body can be a life-threatening issue in pediatric and adult patients, and the majority of these patients will first present to the emergency department. ⋯ An understanding of the presentation, evaluation, and management of the patient with an airway foreign body is essential for emergency clinicians.
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A risk stratification scale is essential to identify high-risk patients who had transient ischemic attack (TIA) to prevent subsequent permanent disability caused by ischemic stroke. ⋯ The MESH score indicated improved accuracy for TIA risk stratification in the ED setting.