Browse Emergency Medicine Topics Articles by Topic

Sickle Cell Emergencies

This article provides an overview of the most frequently encountered complications associated with sickle cell disease seen in the emergency department. It will discuss recent guidelines and novel approaches to the treatment of entities such as acute chest syndrome, vaso-occlusive crisis, and stroke, as well as new treatments on the horizon.

Chest Pain in Young Adults

Chest pain is one of the most common reasons that patients present to the emergency department. The underlying disease processes can range from benign to life-threatening. The purpose of this article is to discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and management of the common causes of chest pain that can present in a young adult.

Mammalian Bites

Bites, whether dog, cat, or human, are a common reason for emergency department visits.This article reviews the complexities of different types of bites ED providers may encounter and issues regarding closure and antibiotic prophylaxis, in addition to vaccination concerns.

Skin Infestations: Fungal and Scabies

Although cutaneous fungal infections rarely are life-threatening, they are common, and they are irritating. This article provides an in-depth look at common rashes caused by fungi and scabies.

Evidence-based Management of Atrial Fibrillation in the Emergency Department

This article provides an overview of atrial fibrillation (AF) and evidence-based guidance on controversial aspects of AF workup and management in the emergency department. The evidence is provided to help safely reduce unnecessary testing and expand the emergency provider’s management armamentarium to include electrical and pharmacologic conversion in recent-onset AF patients.

Advanced Management of Opioid Overdose in the Emergency Department

This article aims to provide acute care providers with advanced techniques in the management of opioid overdoses, including the use of naloxone, the opioid receptor antagonist, as well as harm reduction management strategies aimed at long-term risk mitigation in this vulnerable population.

Ultrasound-guided Nerve Blocks in the Emergency Department

Ultrasound-guided nerve blocks offer effective and safe alternatives to systemic analgesics to manage pain in the ED. This article reviews the literature supporting the use of ultrasound-guided nerve blocks in the ED and describes how to perform some of the most basic nerve blocks.

Hemorrhage Control: Advances in Trauma Care

Massive hemorrhage is a devastating scenario. Early identification is essential to allow for prompt, potentially lifesaving interventions with the goal of rapid control of exsanguination.

Four Thrombocytopenic Emergencies

Thrombocytopenia is encountered commonly in the emergency department. In most instances, the emergency physician will not be able to determine the definitive diagnosis, but it is important that the initial evaluation be started in a timely manner and that appropriate specialists be consulted from the emergency department.

Wound Care Review

Traumatic lacerations are a common ED presentation. Although managing most ED lacerations is routine, some cases are complex, requiring physician judgment for effective treatment. This review will discuss the principles of laceration management, incorporating recent research in wound care.