Articles: emergency-medical-services.
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We performed this study to evaluate the accuracy of pulse oximetry oxygen saturation (SpO2) against direct measurements of arterial oxygen saturation (SaO2) in the field. ⋯ We conclude that pulse oximetry is sufficiently accurate to be useful in the field when SpO2 is more than 88%. It is potentially useful in patients with clinical signs of acute hypoxemia and in patients receiving interventions that may produce acute hypoxemia. Further work is needed to evaluate the accuracy of pulse oximetry in the settings of elevated carboxyhemoglobin, methemoglobin, and very low saturations.
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Emerg. Med. Clin. North Am. · Aug 1991
ReviewMedicolegal issues in pediatric and adolescent emergencies.
The process of providing emergency care is a difficult one. In pediatric emergency care, this process is complicated by a host of factors, including special legal considerations. A basic identification of these legal issues as discussed will enhance the ability of the emergency physician to feel more comfortable in an already complicated work environment. ⋯ When questions of law versus medicine conflict, it is best to consult competent legal authority. When time does not permit such access, it is imperative that proper medical care is pursued to the best ability of the physician provider. No matter what the legal outcome in a particular case, one must feel comfortable within professional practice standards and be able to live with oneself.