Archive

Author: Anand Swaminathan

Should We Give Fingertip Amputations with Exposed Bone Prophylactic Antibiotics?

Background: Fingertip amputations are not an uncommon injury seen in the emergency department. Treatment options range from healing by secondary intention to flap coverage or replantation. Selection of the appropriate treatment modality depends on the nature of the injury, the ...

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Trauma

What Is the Role of Muscle Relaxants or Opiates in the Treatment of Acute Non-Traumatic LBP?

Background: Acute, non-traumatic low back pain (LBP) is a common chief complaint and has been estimated to lead to more than 2.7 million ED visits annually nationwide. It affects a broad range of individuals and can be painful and debilitating ...

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Orthopedics

Is Too Much Supplemental O2 Harmful in COPD Exacerbations?

Background: It’s common practice to give carefully titrated supplemental oxygen therapy for patients in COPD exacerbation. We give enough O2 to prevent hypoxemia, but not so much that it causes hypoventilation or dangerous hypercarbia. If you’re like me then you’ve ...

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Thoracic and Respiratory

The HEAT Trial – Acetaminophen in ICU Patients with Fever

Background: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is commonly used to lower the temperature of patients with fever suspected to be causeed by an infection in both homes across the world and the hospital. There are, however, opposing theories to the utility of decreasing ...

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Resuscitation

Beyond ACLS – POCUS in Cardiac Arrest

As we have discussed in previous posts, the care of patients with cardiac arrest is a key skill for Emergency Providers. ACLS provides a foundation for care but is rife with shortcomings including, but not limited to, reliance on outdated ...

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Resuscitation

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