Emergency Medicine Topics
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‘Hybrid’ Medical Malpractice Lawsuits Are ‘End-Run’ Around Damage Caps
These cases allege both professional negligence and medical battery. Insiders explain why that may be problematic.
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Lawsuits Allege Abnormal Findings Were Missed After ED Patient was Admitted
Education on structured handoffs and closed loop communication is paying dividends. Still, malpractice claims are occurring with admitted patients. The fact patterns all are similar: Tests are ordered while the patient remains in the ED. Results come back after the patient is upstairs — and no one ever follows up.
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For EDs, Simulation Is Not Just for Training, It Is a Risk Management Tool
Some procedures are high-risk, but low-volume. Simulation is a way for ED providers to practice these uncommon procedures.
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Telehealth Booming in EDs, but Poses Some Unique Liability Risks
EDs are using telehealth for screening visits before arrival or for follow-up re-evaluations on COVID-19-positive patients. It is important to know what can be excluded safely in a telemedicine consult, and what requires urgent and/or emergent in-person follow-up.
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Many Charts Lack Any Evidence of Thorough H&P
Often, a portion of the history, assessment, or evaluation was handled, but for whatever reason does not make it into the emergency medicine record. This makes it appear as though a poor or incomplete assessment was conducted. Double check these items to see they are included.
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Essential ED Documentation Often Missing from Chart
Certain pieces of information, if omitted from the ED medical record, instantly raise concerns about the quality of the care provided. These missing items in particular complicate malpractice defense.
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Assessment, Documentation, and Protocols: All Tied to ED Malpractice Payouts
Malpractice claims are more likely to succeed if documentation is insufficient, if an assessment was inadequate, or if something was not handled according to policy or protocol.
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Health System Improves Stroke-to-Treatment, Door-to-Groin Times
University of Michigan Health in Grand Rapids has dramatically improved metrics for stroke treatment, using communication tools to connect EMS teams with specialists in neurology, radiology, nursing, laboratory, and pharmacy. The improved communication makes it possible for the hospital to activate the appropriate personnel in the ED before stroke patients arrive.
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Mechanical Ventilation for Pneumonia, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, and COVID-19
This article discusses mechanical ventilation for patients with pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and COVID-19.
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Natural History Study Focuses on Unlocking Mysteries of Acute Flaccid Myelitis
Non-polio enteroviruses have been suspected as the primary culprits causing acute flaccid myelitis. However, it is clear now that other viruses can cause the illness.