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Using newer methodology in network meta-analysis to compare various protective mechanical ventilation strategies, the authors concluded that a low tidal volume strategy combined with prone ventilation was associated with the greatest risk reduction in mortality for moderate to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome.
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Biomarkers have become an important tool for the early recognition and prognostication of acute kidney injury. In the last few years, several biomarkers have emerged that have shown promising results in large-scale clinical studies.
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Malaria is present in all continents except Antarctica and has led to significant human illness and death. Children account for the majority of malaria deaths globally, making malaria a significant contributor to childhood mortality worldwide. Malaria is a mandatory consideration for children with fever who are returned travelers, since the disease process can lead to significant mortality and rapid clinical decline. The authors provide an update and current state of care for malaria in the pediatric population.
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Rash is a common complaint in the emergency department. Often, the pediatric rash is a benign, self-limiting condition that requires no intervention; however, there are occasions when rashes are true emergencies. Identifying these rare occasions is critical for the pediatric patient.
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Often, patients express anger over service experienced, but the perceived slight does not equate to malpractice.
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During the initial phone call or meeting, complainants often provide a compelling narrative, but it falls apart after an independent expert reviews the ED chart. False or misleading statements about what happened in the ED undermine the patient’s credibility. Also, the cost of filing a malpractice lawsuit, and the low odds of prevailing, mean long odds for patients looking to become plaintiffs.
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Recent findings suggest ED providers probably do not treat all patients equally. Researchers want to use these data to determine just how much hidden biases might affect care. Meanwhile, they suggest providers self-screen to improve awareness.
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Engaging with the patient can help ED nurses avoid these risky situations. Nurses can notice subtle signs of escalation, treat with medications when appropriate, offer food, perform regular assessments, and facilitate hygiene. It also is important for ED nurses to demonstrate they did everything in their power to transfer the patient to a higher level of care, if that is what the patient needs.
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Team training — on communication skills, monitoring patients, and sharing information while the patient still is in the ED — can ensure the correct tests are ordered and acted on.
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Considering the effects of stress on well-being, first responders are at higher risk of suffering from emotional fallout from their work. The good news is there are some straightforward solutions that could mitigate the harmful effects of stress and reduce their risk of developing depression, PTSD, or other mental health problems.
