Practical Summaries in Acute Care Archives – February 1, 2005
February 1, 2005
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Potential Role for Leukotriene Inhibitors in Asthma Management
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of zafirlukast, an oral leukotriene receptor antagonist, in ED patients presenting with acute exacerbations of asthma. -
Self-administered Antidysrhythmics for Perceived Episodes of Atrial Fibrillation
This Italian study evaluated the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of an outpatient pill-in-the-pocket approach to treating atrial fibrillation, whereby patients who were treated successfully in the ED with flecainide or propafenone were provided the same medication for self-administration and outpatient use for recurrent AF episodes. -
Utility of Serum Electrolyte Determination in Dehydrated Pediatric Patients
A serum electrolyte panel often is obtained in the management of pediatric patients dehydrated due to gastroenteritis and needing intravenous fluids. The usefulness of this practice was evaluated prospectively in a convenience sample of 182 children, 2 months to 9 years of age, seen in a pediatric emergency department with an observation unit. -
Special Feature: Acute Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a serious limb- and life-threatening complication of extremity trauma. Fractures, crush injuries, burns, and arterial injuries all can result in an acute compartment syndrome. -
ECG Review: Typical LBBB? LVH? Acute MI?
The electrocardiogram in the figure was obtained from a 63-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, heart failure, and atypical chest pain. Does it indicate a typical left bundle-branch block? Would you interpret this tracing as suggestive of left ventricular hypertrophy or acute myocardial infarction?