South African medical journal = Suid-Afrikaanse tydskrif vir geneeskunde
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Review Case Reports
Intracardiac air--the 'hospital killer' identified? Case reports and review of the literature.
Venous access is an essential part of caring for the sick neonate. The primary problem with catheters, whether peripherally or centrally placed, is the difficulty in maintaining them, the development of phlebitis and systemic infection, and fluid extravasation. A lesser known complication is the development of venous air embolism (VAE), as described in the 4 cases presented. ⋯ We should take full responsibility for equipment, the connections, the infusate and the monitoring thereof. Unfortunately, the prognosis for this condition remains poor and it is unclear whether an increased awareness of this condition would influence outcome. Manufacturers of intravenous fluids should produce products devoid of air in order to reduce the risk of venous air embolism.
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Sections of contemporary South African society are characterised by high levels of crime and interpersonal conflict. The South African Police Service (SAPS) is in the front line, with many deaths and injuries occuring among serving officers in recent years. The circumstances and nature of the injuries sustained by these officers have received little attention in the medical literature. ⋯ There is an unacceptably high level of violence in South African society today and SAPS members regularly have to deal with dangerous or violent situations. There is a clear need to introduce a reporting system within the SAPS to record the use of personal protection by officers. Education needs to target SAPS members in order to enhance their use of personal protection. There is a further need to design and implement personal protection that will be universally acceptable by SAPS members.