Emergency Medicine - Adult and Pediatric
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Emergency Medicine Specialty Most Likely to be Named in Acute Stroke Malpractice Claims
Emergency physicians (EPs) are the specialty most likely to be sued in acute stroke cases, according to a recent analysis. One-third of malpractice claims named EPs. In contrast, neurologists were named in just 17% of claims.
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Envenomations
Envenomations can occur from a variety of species. They can cause symptoms that range from minor skin irritation to systemic signs and symptoms, organ failure, and even death. Knowing the signs and symptoms of envenomation are important for management and disposition.
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Taming of the Flu: An Update on What's New
The 2019-2020 flu season is already among us, and it is imperative that those healthcare practitioners on the frontline, particularly in our nation’s emergency departments, have current knowledge of prevention and treatment strategies.
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Methamphetamines in the Emergency Department: Part of the Drug Epidemic
The use and abuse of methamphetamine is a worsening global health problem that may be underestimated in light of the current opioid epidemic. Methamphetamines result in sympathetically mediated agitation and in psychiatric symptoms. Clinicians should be knowledgeable about the recognition and treatment of these disorders, as well as about the other complications, including arrhythmias, cerebrovascular accidents, seizures, dental issues, and systemic and local infections.
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The Pediatric Airway and Rapid Sequence Intubation
The skill to assess and manage the pediatric airway is essential. Correlating anatomic considerations with the need for escalating airway management is critical to optimize each child's outcome.
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Claims Allege ED Failed to Diagnose Fracture; Cases Feature Similar Fact Patterns
Orthopedists were the most frequently named specialty in fracture-related malpractice lawsuits, according to the authors of an analysis of claims occurring from 1988 to 2015.
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Sparsely Charted History and Physical Complicates Med/Mal Defense
The chart should clearly show what was considered, and what was ruled out, during the visit. Thoroughness in this regard leads the EP to the appropriate testing, treatment, and disposition.
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Analysis Reveals Med/Mal Risks for Antibiotics Administered in ED
Evidence on actual legal risks of failing to give antibiotics is lacking. Part of the problem is that both clinicians and patients frequently believe that taking an antibiotic is the safest practice in cases where it is unclear if antibiotics are needed.
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ED Defense Can Counter Opposing Expert’s ‘Flagrantly False’ Testimony
Hindsight bias, lack of ED work experience, and earning a living through testimony are factors that can make for problematic witnesses.
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Defensive Charting Can Lead to Unintended Consequences for Everyone
If EPs do not see the nursing notes, they will not be able to address statements claiming they did nothing to address a patient’s deteriorating condition.