Browse Emergency Articles by Topic

The Initial Evaluation and Clearance of Spinal Injuries in Emergency Medical Practice

The initial evaluation and management of patients with potential spinal injuries in emergency medicine practice is in evolution. The authors thoughtfully explore the evidence available and its limitations.

Gallstones and Associated Complications

MONOGRAPH: Biliary causes of right upper quadrant pain with the primary focus on gallstones and their associated complications.

Mimics of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI)

Several conditions can mimic an acute infarction by producing ST segment elevation. It is important for the emergency physician to recognize these conditions to appropriately manage patients in the ED and to better distinguish acute infarction from other conditions on the ECG.

Acetazolamide in Mechanically Ventilated Patients with COPD: Is There a Benefit?

Compared to placebo, the use of acetazolamide in mechanically ventilated patients with COPD does not significantly reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation.

Communication Facilitators Potentially Can Improve Care for the Sickest ICU Patients

Highly trained communication facilitators who counseled families and met with physicians and nurses were shown to decrease symptoms of depression in family members at six months and decreased ICU length of stay without affecting mortality.

Delaying Intubation in Severe Alcohol Withdrawal

Delaying intubation until aspiration or cardiopulmonary decompensation did not affect mortality but increased the incidence of pneumonia and length of stay.

Patients Rarely Sleep in the ICU

Understanding the mechanisms of sleep deprivation in the ICU may help clinicians modify some of these factors to promote better quality sleep.

Pediatric Seizures

Although benzodiazepines remain the first-line therapy, awareness of next steps in therapy is necessary.

Does Phone Consult Establish Patient-Physician Relationship?

EPs cannot safely assume that a consultant who gives advice over the phone will be held liable if a bad outcome results.

Settlement of Med/Mal Claim Could Cause EP Unexpected Problems

A quick settlement can seem very appealing to any EP defendant facing protracted litigation, but EPs should be aware of the repercussions.