Articles tagged with Emergency Medicine
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
The University of Pittsburgh will lead a multidisciplinary consortium to investigate and determine the best methods for treating sepsis, a life-threatening disease affecting 750,000 Americans annually. The $8.4 million NIH grant aims to identify the ideal way to stop sepsis in its tracks and improve survival rates.
A study found that lobbing raw eggs at people as a prank can result in blunt ocular trauma, leading to injuries such as tears, bruising, and raised internal pressure. In some cases, this can cause permanent loss of eyesight.
A new study by UCLA researchers analyzed clots removed from the brain blood vessels of 25 stroke victims, revealing that they are composed of similar components. The analysis showed that red blood-cell accumulations often accumulated on clots after impaction in the brain artery, contradicting previous assumptions.
Blood alcohol levels above legal limits increased significantly among emergency care patients, with a 113% rise in lab tests from 1999 to 2004. The number of intoxicated women doubled, while men consistently outnumbered women across all age groups.
A new study predicts that the US will spend $2.2 trillion on stroke care over the next 45 years unless preventive measures are taken. The highest costs will be for African American and Latino patients, who suffer strokes at younger ages and receive poorer-quality care.
Despite recent atrocities, British hospitals remain poorly prepared for major incidents, with many lacking clear plans and regular rehearsal schedules. The survey found that only 54% of doctors were clear about their role in responding to a major incident, highlighting the need for improved preparation.
Language barriers compromise health care for 50 million U.S. residents who do not speak English at home, resulting in delayed care, preventable injuries, and higher healthcare costs. The article highlights the need for adequate language services to ensure optimal communication, patient satisfaction, and safety.
The study will enroll up to 20,000 patients in North America over two years, testing new saline solutions for trauma patients and a unique airway valve for cardiac arrest. The research aims to improve circulation and oxygenation in critically ill patients.
A study found that manual chest compressions were more effective than automated devices in treating out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. The research, published in JAMA, also showed that the device associated with worse neurological outcomes in survivors.
The study found that falls among the elderly in North East England resulted in a significant cost to the ambulance service, with an average of £145 per fall. A third of calls required assistance only and were related to sheltered housing organisations, while one in four of those transported to emergency care were admitted to hospital.
Researchers highlight disparities in bystander CPR for Latino victims of cardiac arrest. Therapeutic hypothermia also shows promise in reducing mortality and neurological damage after cardiac arrest.
Emergency departments are struggling with high rates of pursuit-related fatalities, particularly among African Americans and Native Americans. The 2004 influenza vaccine shortage also exacerbated issues, especially for patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions and those without insurance coverage.
The study found that escalating biphasic energy regimens were more successful in terminating ventricular fibrillation (VF) and converting to an organized rhythm for secondary shocks. However, the difference was not seen in overall survival rates.
Researchers found that cooling a person by 2°C during the first day after resuscitation can significantly improve their chances of recovering from cardiac arrest. The study, which used rats to replicate human brain injury, showed that even modest cooling of the brain can have beneficial effects on recovery.
A study involving 10,635 students found Greek pledges who get drunk weekly have five times the risk of falling from a height and two and a half times the risk of experiencing a burn compared to non-Greek students. They also face higher risks of other injuries, including sexual assault.
The LA Kids program significantly reduced pediatric epinephrine dosing errors in cardiac arrest cases, with correct doses increasing from 28% to 57% and doses within 20% of the exact dose rising from 44% to 70%. The study emphasizes the importance of system-wide changes and education.
Researchers developed a rapid diagnostic protocol for TIA patients, reducing hospital stays to 25 hours and costs by $662. The protocol did not harm patients, with comparable clinical outcomes to traditional inpatient admission.
The conference aims to define the scientific parameters of surge capacity, a critical measure of disaster preparedness. Experts will explore the linkages between disaster surge and daily surge, developing a better understanding of this complex issue.
Disparities in health status persisted for one or more minority groups, with Asian Pacific Islanders facing inferior oral health and Native Americans experiencing hearing/vision problems. The study also found disparities in care, including lack of health insurance and communication issues with usual sources of care.
A new study suggests that regionalizing heart attack care, similar to trauma care, could be feasible for the US. Nearly 80% of Americans live within a 60-minute ambulance trip of an angioplasty-performing hospital, with most being able to reach one within 30 minutes.
Rochester researchers emphasize the need for more accurate and rapid diagnostic tests for concussions to improve treatment outcomes and prevent long-term neurological damage. Current CT scans are often biased, leading to underdiagnosis of significant axonal injuries.
A new study found that using a combination of sedative and paralytic drugs improves the success rate of airway intubation by 3.7 times, making it the most effective method for patients in critical condition. The research used data from 49 patients transported by air ambulance over a year.
A proposal has been developed by Drs. John L. Hick and Daniel T. O'Laughlin to set guidelines for triage of mechanical ventilators in a pandemic or bioterrorist attack. The guidelines aim to ensure equal allocation of scarce resources to patients most likely to benefit from them, promoting distributive justice.
A new set of guidelines aims to help care for children during emergencies, with a focus on simplifying treatment protocols and addressing special needs. The guidelines will be based on existing clinical protocols and are designed to be accessible to community health workers and volunteers.
Florida emergency physician groups provide substantial uncompensated care, ranging from 26 to 79 percent. The study suggests that the increasing number of uninsured patients is a significant contributor to this trend.
A year-long randomized trial involving 32 emergency departments in Connecticut and southwestern Pennsylvania showed that moderate- and high-intensity quality improvement strategies safely increased outpatient treatment for low-risk patients. The study also found effective implementation of guideline recommendations among practitioners.
A new study by the University at Buffalo, Yale University, and Oregon Health and Science University found that hospital-level care can be provided at home for less money and with fewer clinical complications. The program, called Hospital at Home, resulted in fewer important clinical complications, greater satisfaction, and lower total ...
A new study found that telephone-based care management significantly improves symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as mental health-related quality of life. The intervention resulted in fewer missed workdays and lower emergency room usage among participants.
A study found that lifetime illegal drug use accounts for nearly a third of patients visiting an inner city hospital emergency department. Recently used drugs significantly increase the risk of requiring emergency care, with possible 1 million ED attendances and 40,000 acute admissions annually in England.
A study analyzing emergency department visits by young people aged 7-24 years found that nearly half (56.1%) received a mental disorder diagnosis, with depressive disorders strongly associated with inpatient admission. The findings highlight substantial underrecognition of mental illness and inadequate referral for follow-up care.
The study reveals a significant increase in emergency care attendances, particularly among elderly patients and those arriving by emergency ambulance. Average waiting times doubled, and treatment times increased, despite staffing increases, suggesting pressure on emergency services.
A wire injury from jumping on a bed can be more than just a minor knock on the noggin, according to Dr. Dante Pappano. He published a case study in Pediatric Emergency Care journal after discovering that a mattress wire snapped inside a Rochester boy's foot, leading to a serious injury.
Researchers found that reported insurance status significantly influences access to follow-up appointments for urgent ambulatory care. Privately insured patients were more likely to receive appointments within a week compared to those with Medicaid or no insurance, suggesting a barrier to timely care.
A study found that 69% of meta-analyses in critical care had flaws, leading to concerns about the reliability of medical research. The most common issues were failure to report comprehensive literature searches and methods for avoiding bias.
A new UCLA study highlights the importance of using CT scans to evaluate cervical spine injuries, finding that x-rays fail to detect secondary injuries in 36% of cases. The researchers recommend that all patients with cervical spine injuries undergo CT imaging to identify missed injuries and non-contiguous injuries.
A new review of the American College of Cardiology and American Heart Association guidelines aims to streamline diagnosis and treatment of acute coronary events. The goal is to provide faster treatment that may even prevent a heart attack or damage to the heart before it happens, benefiting millions of patients each year.
A nationwide study found that immigrants spend half as much on healthcare as native-born Americans, with many receiving lower levels of care. Immigrant children receive significantly less care in doctors' offices and emergency rooms compared to U.S.-born children.
A recent study from the University of Pittsburgh highlights the challenges faced by paramedics in performing endotracheal intubation, a critical procedure that requires significant skill and experience. The research found that many paramedics perform intubations less than three times per year, with some not performing any at all.
A new study reveals that emergency physicians' fear of lawsuits fuels defensive medicine, resulting in unnecessary hospital admissions and increased healthcare costs. The research found that high-fear physicians are more likely to admit low-risk patients and order excessive tests.
The study provides guidance on managing severely injured patients in emergency situations, including the importance of close follow-up, a 'chain of command' team, and preparedness for staff recruitment. The authors also offer recommendations for treating common injuries caused by bomb blasts, such as brain, lung, and orthopaedic injuries.
A study published in Pediatrics recommends new guidelines for air bag safety in children. The research found that children under 14 are at high risk of serious injury from air bags when sitting in the front passenger seat, while older children benefit from air bag protection.
A study found that ICU staff reported only 61% of errors detected by external observers, indicating a significant underreporting of unintended events. The use of observer monitoring can provide invaluable information about incidents in ICUs in a short period, improving quality and safety.
A study found that junior doctors in emergency medicine faced difficulties with referrals due to assumptions of inferiority by specialty doctors. Implementing formal teaching, clear guidelines, and role-playing improved outcomes and reduced communication issues.
A study published in Health Services Research found that patients with head injuries transferred from rural trauma centers to Level I trauma centers in Oregon and Washington had a 10% lower mortality risk. This improvement is attributed to the comprehensive care and training programs available at Level I centers.
Research analyzed emergency medical treatment for assaults during international rugby and football matches in Cardiff. The results showed a significant increase in assault cases on match days, with the highest rates observed when Wales won its matches.
Regular cardiovascular follow-up visits with a specialist significantly improve outcomes for heart failure patients, reducing emergency room visits and mortality rates. Access to specialty care is particularly important for elderly and rural patients, who often face barriers to timely treatment.
A two-hour brief negotiation intervention was developed and taught to 58 emergency room physicians, with over 90% passing the proficiency exam. The intervention helps hazardous and harmful drinkers by raising awareness of their drinking levels, enhancing motivation to reduce drinking, and negotiating a plan of action.
Researchers found a psychiatric rate of 5.27% among emergency department patients, significantly lower than national prevalence rates. The study identified significant disparities in psychiatric diagnoses between Caucasians and African Americans.
A comprehensive review of UK asthma frequency and health service use found that south Asian people had lower asthma symptoms, while black people had similar symptoms. South Asians were three times more likely, and blacks twice as likely, to have emergency hospital admissions for the condition.
A new study analyzed surveys from 2,515 asthmatic patients to identify reliable quality indicators for physician profiling. The researchers found that having a sufficient number of patients and using clear-cut indicators like asthma self-management knowledge and use of inhaled steroids can help determine the best doctor for patients.
Emergency department patients with unmet substance abuse treatment needs are 81% more likely to be admitted during their visit and 46% more likely to have visited the ER in the previous year. These patients account for $777.2 million in extra hospital charges annually.
Long waits for inpatient beds in emergency departments can lead to significant revenue loss, as delayed care blocks beds that could treat incoming patients. The study found hospitals may lose up to $168,000 in potential revenue per admitted chest pain patient wait, with the annual loss potentially exceeding $1.74 million.
Out-of-hospital intubation may be more harmful than helpful for patients with severe head injuries. Patients who are intubated prior to hospital arrival have a higher risk of death and neurologic impairment compared to those intubated in the hospital.
The ERICCA project aims to integrate electronic health records to improve asthma care for children. The system will facilitate communication among care providers, allow inter-disciplinary care planning, and provide clinical decision support.
A study in Kenya found that pediatric admission rates varied significantly among hospitals, with basic resources available in only 12 of 14 first-referral level hospitals. Strengthening district hospital infrastructure is crucial for achieving the Millennium Development Goal for child survival.
A study found that fourth-year medical students can identify victims of intimate partner violence, but often neglect to ask crucial questions about the patient's safety and well-being. The findings highlight the need for improved education on domestic violence screening in emergency medicine clerkships.
Researchers will test the effectiveness of a mechanical chest compression device to treat out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest. The study aims to improve survival rates, which have remained stagnant for 30 years, and has the potential to benefit millions.
Prudent-layperson laws have reduced emergency department denials based on symptoms, rather than diagnoses. Insurers are now more likely to cover treatments, and fines for non-compliance have increased industry-wide changes in ED claims management.
A commentary by Pauls and Downie argues that mandatory reporting could erode trust between patients and physicians. Ovens, writing on behalf of the OMA's Section on Emergency Medicine, counters that exceptions exist to protect patient confidentiality while maintaining public safety.
A national study found that health care access for poor children has improved, with a decrease in emergency room visits and hospitalizations. However, the gap in care for uninsured children remains, with those without coverage experiencing worsening access to care.