Articles: emergency-department.
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Dental abscesses are a common reason patients present to the emergency department (ED). Facial and dental imaging are sometimes necessary to support the clinical diagnosis. While radiographs and computed tomography scans are frequently used, point-of-care ultrasound (US) offers several advantages, including decreased radiation exposure, reduced costs, and shorter patient length of stay. This report outlines the use of US in evaluating patients with suspected dental abscesses in the ED. ⋯ US presents several advantages as an alternative imaging method for patients with suspected dental abscesses in the ED. Using innovative techniques such as the OHS and the TPT can further increase the visibility of tissue planes and help define the area of interest in these cases.
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Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GI bleeding) can range from mild symptoms to life-threatening conditions that require emergency intervention. Therefore, it is important to first identify the high-risk and low-risk patients in the emergency department (ED). ⋯ This study validated that lactate clearance at three-hourly intervals is useful for early prediction of mortality and prognosis in patients with GI bleeding. It is important to perform not only an initial lactate measurement, but also a follow-up lactate measurement after initial resuscitation to check the lactate clearance.
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JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc · Aug 2023
Acid Peptic Disease among Patients with Acute Abdomen Visiting the Department of Emergency Medicine in a Tertiary Care Centre.
Acid peptic disease is caused by excessive acid secretion or weakened mucosal defense. Symptoms include epigastric pain, bloating, and nausea. Factors like gastric acid, Helicobacter pylori infection, alcohol consumption, smoking, and stress contribute to peptic ulcers. Imbalances between offensive and defensive factors can lead to ulcers. Acid-related disorders impact the quality of life and mortality. Accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment are vital. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of acid peptic disease among patients with acute abdomen in the Department of Emergency Medicine in a tertiary care centre. ⋯ acute abdomen; gastroenteritis; Helicobacter pylori; peptic ulcer.
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Homelessness increases the risk of cold-related injuries. We examined emergency department visits for cold-related injuries in Toronto over a 4-year period, comparing visits for patients identified as homeless to visits for patients not identified as homeless. ⋯ Patients experiencing homelessness visiting the emergency department are much more likely to be seen for cold-related injuries than non-homeless patients. Additional efforts are needed to prevent cold-related exposure and consequent injury among people experiencing homelessness.