Emergency Medicine
Articles tagged with Emergency Medicine
Telemedicine adoption, US ambulatory visits, and total medical spending, 2019-2023
A nationwide study found no significant association between telemedicine adoption and changes in US ambulatory visits or total medical spending. The expansion of telemedicine has eased concerns about increased utilization and spending, as the growth did not lead to large increases in these areas.
One-year mortality among opioid overdose survivors
Study identifies post-extubation pneumonia as a distinct condition after surgery and key risk factors
Children in poorer countries face almost sixfold higher risk of dying after emergency surgery
Outcomes associated with hospital at home vs traditional inpatient stay
A retrospective study found lower in-hospital mortality and emergency department use within 30 days of discharge for Medicare beneficiaries undergoing hospital at home compared to traditional inpatient care. However, hospital readmissions within 30 days showed no significant difference between the two approaches.
Study finds regional differences in sickle cell disease in New York state
A new study reveals significant variation in sickle cell disease hospitalizations and costs across New York State, with regional differences in access to specialized care and treatment impacting outcomes. Long Island and New York City show high costs and complex cases, while Central New York has the longest average length of stay.
First-ever freeze-dried artificial platelets are shelf-stable and portable—a major advance for field medicine
Artificial platelets have been developed that remain stable and effective after a year at room temperature and two months at high temperatures. This technology could enable direct injection of synthetic platelets into bone marrow to treat life-threatening bleeding in remote areas or disaster zones.
University of Cincinnati works with local paramedics to advance sudden cardiac arrest research
A University of Cincinnati study proves the feasibility and scalability of collecting blood from patients in cardiac arrest during treatment. The approach, which involves paramedics delivering samples to a biorepository, showed significant variation among patients and underscores the need for further research.
The BMJ reveals 13,000 patients waited over three days in England’s A&E departments last year
In England, 13,386 patients waited at least three days for A&E treatment in 2025, with numbers spending a whole day in emergency departments increasing by a third since 2023. The prolonged waits are causing harm to patients nationwide, with some saying they'd rather die at home.
Kratom use is surging in the US, with life-changing consequences
A new study found that kratom exposures reported to US poison centers increased 6,500% between 2010 and 2023, with severe outcomes rising from zero cases to 158. States with kratom bans had lower rates of exposure and healthcare use compared to those with regulations.
Video game improves emergency doctor trauma triage decision making
A video game developed to improve trauma triage decision making in emergency doctors has shown promising results. The game reduced under-triage rates for older patients by 49% compared to those who did not play the game, suggesting improved diagnostic abilities and adherence to guidelines.
New mapping model can help cities efficiently deploy blood resources to patients most in need
A new mapping model uses geo-mapping and statistical analysis to identify areas with the greatest need for prehospital whole blood transfusions. The model can help hospital systems quickly deploy scarce blood resources and minimize waste, particularly in underserved communities.
Kids most in need of dental care least likely to benefit from school programs
A study found that children who need dental care the most are less likely to participate in school-based cavity prevention programs, which can lead to significant savings for state Medicaid programs. Improving participation among high-risk children could save up to $2.4 million annually.
Study finds rising rates of electric scooter injuries, with racial and ethnic disparities among those harmed
A new study using a national database of e-scooter injuries found that children accounted for over 45% of e-scooter related injuries. Racial and ethnic disparities were also noted, with Black and Hispanic children seeing the highest rates of injury, at 16% and 15.7%, respectively.
ER screening tool accurately predicts firearm violence risk among young adults
A study of young adults treated in emergency departments found that a firearm-specific risk screening tool, SaFETy score, can predict the risk of interpersonal firearm violence. The findings support the value of the SaFetY score for screening young adults for firearm risk who present to emergency departments.
Dr. Cameron J. Gettel to be honored at #AGS26 for cross-cutting work at the intersection of geriatrics, emergency care, and care transitions
Dr. Cameron J. Gettel receives the Jeffrey H. Silverstein Memorial Award for his work advancing emergency care for older adults, improving care transitions, and reducing financial burden of acute care. He is recognized as an emerging national leader in geriatric emergency care.
Preparing Canada’s health system for military conflicts
Canada's health system would bear the burden of medical care in major armed conflicts, and lacks a coordinated command structure and surge capacity. A national framework with three pillars – sustained clinical readiness, dual-use capacity, and formal coordination – is proposed to address this vulnerability.
ER triage for children’s behavioral health too often wrong, shows bias
A new study found that ER triage scores for children's mental or behavioral health were inaccurate in two-thirds of cases, with biases against Black and Hispanic patients. Parents are advised to advocate for their child if they suspect a risk of self-harm or harm to others while waiting.
When temperatures drop, heart-related deaths rise
A study analyzing monthly temperatures and cardiovascular deaths found that cold weather accounted for about 6.3% of all cardiovascular deaths, resulting in 800,000 excess deaths over two decades. The research highlights the need for communities to prepare for climate change's impact on extreme cold.
Ambulance use delays care for injured patients in Global South
In Ghana, Pakistan, Rwanda, and South Africa, more than half of seriously injured patients failed to reach medical care within an hour. Patients using informal means arrived quicker than those traveling by ambulance.
Extreme urban heat and emergency department visits in older adults
Research suggests significant heat-health risks observed among socioeconomically vulnerable populations. This study underscores the importance of developing targeted heat warning strategies to mitigate these risks and prevent emergency department visits among older adults.
Waterpipe smoking can cause carbon monoxide poisoning even after brief use, during outdoor smoking, or through indoor secondhand exposure
Research reveals carbon monoxide poisoning from waterpipe smoking can occur after brief use, outdoor smoking, or secondhand exposure. The study identified 68 cases of acute CO poisoning, including 13 cases of polycythemia, a chronic condition caused by prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide.
Restrictive vs liberal physical restraint strategies in critically ill patients
A randomized clinical trial investigated the effectiveness of low-use vs high-use physical restraint strategies in critically ill patients receiving mechanical ventilation in the ICU. The study found no significant reduction in days free of delirium or coma at 14 days, regardless of the restraint strategy used.
Long-term trends in pediatric self-injury in high-income countries
A systematic review of 42 studies reveals a rising trend in self-injury among children and youth in high-income countries, with significant variability across countries. The findings highlight the need for effective, contextually informed prevention strategies to curb this growing concern.
Timely scan could save lives of A&E patients with blood in urine
A new study found that A&E patients with visible blood in their urine who receive a scan within 48 hours are 2.5% less likely to die within three months. The study also showed that patients with cancer are diagnosed significantly faster when they receive prompt investigation.
Severe COVID-19, flu facilitate lung cancer months or years later, new research shows
Severe COVID-19 and influenza infections can prime the lungs for cancer development, according to new research. Vaccination, however, largely prevents these changes, suggesting a reduced risk of lung cancer.
Incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on a postholiday weekday
A nationwide cohort study found a significantly elevated incidence of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests on post-holiday weekdays, particularly among vulnerable populations after consecutive rest days. The study supports enhanced emergency preparedness and targeted public health messaging during holiday periods.
Neighborhood factors may lead to increased COPD-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations
A new study reveals that neighborhood characteristics, including poverty and lower educational attainment, are associated with higher COPD-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations. Community-level interventions targeting these risk factors can help improve quality of life and reduce acute care use.
Experience with patients needing trauma care—not years on the job—saves lives in EMS care
Research by University of Pittsburgh surgeon-scientists reveals that EMS clinicians who treat a high number of trauma patients have improved survival rates. The study found a 10% decrease in mortality for every five additional trauma patients treated annually, with no association between years on the job and patient outcomes.
A parent’s concern is a warning sign: Identifies a child’s sudden severe illness in over 90 per cent of cases
A new study from the University of Oulu and Oulu University Hospital found that parental concern is a significant medical indicator, identifying most children with sudden and severe illness. Clear or strong concern from parents correctly identified as many as 91% of seriously ill children.
Medicare patients get different stroke care depending on plan, analysis reveals
A study by University of Virginia Health System researchers found that Medicare Advantage patients had better access to preventive care and rehabilitation after a stroke, leading to faster recovery times. In contrast, traditional Medicare patients were less likely to receive these services due to prior authorization requirements.
Admissions for child maltreatment decreased during first phase of COVID-19 pandemic, but ICU admissions increased later
Hospital admissions for child maltreatment declined by 31% during the initial lockdown of the COVID-19 pandemic but rebounded to pre-pandemic levels after restrictions were lifted. However, rates of admission to intensive care units (ICUs) increased by 80% after the 16-week period of restricted healthcare access.
Breathing tube insertion before hospital admission for major trauma saves lives
A new study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine found that prehospital emergency intubation of high-risk trauma patients improves 30-day survival by 10.3% and could save 170 lives each year in the UK. Prehospital intubation needs to be administered by an advanced critical care team.
Emergency department–initiated buprenorphine for opioid use disorder
A new study published in JAMA found that emergency department-initiated buprenorphine for opioid use disorder was well-tolerated and effective, with a low risk of withdrawal. The 7-day extended-release and sublingual buprenorphine groups showed similar treatment engagement rates on day 7.
Fall prevention programs in emergency departments may help older adults after discharge
A new study suggests that emergency departments may be able to take meaningful steps during visits to help older adults stay safer once they return home. Researchers found that bedside pharmacy and physical therapy consultations yielded individualized recommendations, including mobility aids and medication adjustments.
Novel framework for real-time bedside heart rate variability analysis
Scientists have developed a novel computational framework for real-time, personalized heart rate variability monitoring. The framework provides robust, adaptive alerts and improves the accuracy of HRV analysis by excluding artifact-prone periods.
New resource supports trauma survivors, health professionals
A new online tool provides information and tools for clinicians to respond to emerging patient care needs, enhancing trauma-informed healthcare for individuals with C-PTSD. The resource was co-developed by researchers and survivors, aligning with best practices and patient-centered research.
Significant gaps persist in regional UK access to 24/7 air ambulance services
Despite improvements in UK air ambulance service availability since 2009, regional gaps remain. The provision of advanced interventions like blood transfusion varies, while 24/7 doctor-based teams are not consistently available across the UK.
Air ambulance pre-hospital care may make surviving critical injury more likely
A study analyzing 3225 trauma patients in South East England found that air ambulance pre-hospital care significantly improved survival rates, with 2125 patients exceeding 30-day survival. Those most likely to benefit were severely injured patients with moderate probability of survival, who unexpectedly survived for 30 days.
California Office of Traffic Safety awards $850,000 grant to the UC Irvine School of Medicine to broaden the UC Traffic Safety Collaborative Program
The UC Irvine School of Medicine has been awarded a $850,000 grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety to broaden the UC Traffic Safety Collaborative Program. The program aims to reduce traffic-related injuries and fatalities in California through education, research, and enforcement.
Low-cost system turns smartphones into emergency radiation detectors
A low-cost, portable dosimetry system using radiochromic film and a smartphone can provide immediate on-site readings for radiation exposure. The system is practical for personal preparedness in mass-casualty events and costs less than USD$70.
Study shows younger children experience persistent symptoms following concussion
A new study from Nationwide Children's Hospital finds that similar to older children and adults, about one fourth of children under six years old who experience a concussion will develop prolonged symptoms. Younger children are more likely to sustain brain injuries due to their size differences and weaker muscles.
Effective oxygen therapy saves an 80-year-old woman from acute poisoning: a case report from Sultan Qaboos University Hospital
A 82-year-old woman was treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy for severe carbon monoxide poisoning after conventional oxygen therapy failed to produce significant improvement. The patient demonstrated considerable neurological recovery and full communication abilities after a single session of HBOT.
Stroke survivors miss critical treatment, face greater disability due to systemic transfer delays
A new study suggests that gaps in the nation's stroke transfer system reduce survivors' chances of receiving critical treatment and increase disability. Patients with longer delays in hospital transfer experienced worse disability after their stroke, highlighting missed opportunities for many stroke patients.
Can Canada’s health systems handle increased demand during FIFA World Cup?
A recent editorial cautions that Canada's health systems may struggle to cope with the influx of patients during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. The article highlights concerns about overburdened hospitals and emergency departments, as well as the need for a national plan to bolster capacity and train personnel.
Ambitious model fails to explain near-death experiences, experts say
UVA experts Bruce Greyson and Marieta Pehlivanova argue that the NEPTUNE model leaves many unanswered questions about near-death experiences. Despite its sophistication, the model selectively ignores scientific evidence and fails to address key aspects of NDEs.
Post–intensive care syndrome
Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is a condition affecting ICU survivors, characterized by fatigue, cognitive impairment, and sleep disturbances. Treatment strategies focus on symptom management and prevention of complications.
What TV gets wrong about CPR—and why it matters for saving lives
A study analyzed 169 US TV episodes that portrayed hands-only CPR since 2008 and found nearly half showed outdated practices. Most cardiac-arrest victims receiving hands-only CPR on-screen were white men, while women and Black and Latino people are less likely to receive the intervention in real life.
Study shows federal safety metric inappropriately penalizes hospitals for lifesaving stroke procedures
A new UCLA study finds that the Patient Safety Indicator 04 (PSI 04) metric is fundamentally flawed when applied to emergency stroke care. The researchers argue that the metric incorrectly flags unavoidable complications of severe strokes, rather than problems with the procedure itself.
Maternal vaccine receipt and infant hospital and emergency visits for influenza and pertussis
A study found that maternal vaccinations against influenza and pertussis are associated with reduced hospitalization or emergency department visits in infants under 6 months. Implementing maternal vaccination campaigns can enhance infant health outcomes, addressing low vaccination coverage.
Costs pose hurdle for promising new hepatitis C lab test
A new rapid test for hepatitis C could identify more patients who can be cured if insurers increase reimbursement to cover the test's high cost. The test's point-of-care feature makes it ideal for early screening and treatment in clinics and emergency rooms.
Nirsevimab against hospitalizations and emergency department visits for lower respiratory tract infection in infants
A meta-analysis found nirsevimab to be associated with reduced hospitalizations and emergency department visits for lower respiratory tract infections in young children. This suggests the potential of nirsevimab to decrease respiratory-related morbidity in this population.
Children under 2 more likely to visit ED after virtual care visit than in-person visits
A new Ontario-based study suggests that children aged three months to two years are more likely to visit the emergency department within three days of a virtual primary care appointment compared to an in-person visit. In-person appointments may be preferable for young children with acute concerns.
Virtual care provision and emergency department use among children and youth
A population-based cohort study found that virtual sick visits to primary care were associated with a small increase in emergency department use in children aged 3 months or older. The study suggests judicious use of virtual primary care to manage acute illness in children is warranted.
Chronic breathlessness emerging as a hidden strain on hospitals
A new study reveals chronic breathlessness is associated with longer hospital stays and higher healthcare costs in Australia. The research highlights the urgent need for clinicians and policymakers to recognize chronic breathlessness as a major driver of hospital admissions and healthcare expenses.
Kids’ behavioral health is a growing share of family health costs
The study found that behavioral health care accounted for $41.8 billion of overall health spending in 2022, with families paying an average of $2.9 billion out-of-pocket. The costs have grown more than twice as fast as other types of medical care, with telehealth visits increasing by 99% per year.
1 in 4 children with major traumatic injuries not cared for in pediatric trauma centres
Research shows that 77% of severely injured children are transported or transferred to pediatric trauma centers, highlighting the need for improved access and evidence-based strategies. Variability in access exists across Canadian provinces, with some areas having higher access than others.
Sedative choice could improve outcomes for breathing tube patients
A randomized trial found that etomidate is safe to use and significantly decreases the risk of dangerously low blood pressures during tracheal intubation compared to ketamine. This new evidence supports the use of etomidate as a safer alternative for critically ill adults.
Remote ventilate view platform for real-time monitoring of patient-ventilator asynchrony
The study demonstrates a significant association between the overall asynchrony index (OAI) and patient outcomes in COVID-19-associated severe pneumonia. Patients with a high asynchrony burden had significantly higher intensive care unit mortality and fewer ventilator-free days, highlighting the importance of PVA monitoring.