MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'emergency'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 01:48:41 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181810&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FsuwvoByosDQ%2F Do you work in an emergency department? Or maybe in an ICU? Or perhaps the prehospital environment? Regardless, of where you look after critically ill patients you MUST click on this LINK now! What will you find there? Two things: The first part of a talk by ‘Early Goal Directed Therapy’ legend Dr Manny Rivers on [...] (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181810 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:38:31 +0100 5181810 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181811&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FTmWWsO6C2Iw%2F A modified mnemonic for recalling the key issues in the supportive care of critically ill patients. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181811 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:07:16 +0100 5181811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181815&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1841 : ‘Not now.’ (This column first appeared in the Greenville News, but I re-wrote and expanded  it for my EMN readers in the September edition.  So here it is with a few special thoughts for the medical community.) Here’s the link to the EMN online edition as well: http://journals.lww.com/em-news/Fulltext/2011/09000/Second_Opinion__Two_of_the_Worst_Words_of_All__Not.8.aspx If you were watching me, secretly, you would see that I sometimes do things that are decidedly non-adult. I can be seen dancing across the hardwood floor with my daughter, with no music audible (except inside her lovely head). She apparently aspires to be a choreographer, and though I am no dancer, I am the only male in the house who will dance with her. When she asks, what can I say? I know many l... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181815 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 13:02:36 +0100 5181815 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181816&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1837 I think a lot about the slow, certain dissolution of medicine as we know it.  Mental health issues crowd emergency departments, as few mental health clinics are available.  Psychiatrists are in short supply.  Drug abuse overwhelms the medical system, with either patients seeking pills or patients families hoping to get them off of pills. Persons with little interest in their own health continue to smoke and drink, use Meth and eat poorly.  Disability claims are skyrocketing as younger and younger individuals confabulate their misery in hopes of attaining a check, paid for by someone else. The poor, with genuine medical problems, have increasing difficulty finding care as jobs, and insurance, fade away.  Politicians, eager to be re-elected, eager to be loved, promise more and supply le... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181816 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:14:08 +0100 5181816 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174622&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FX8KSTUUJEno%2F A chest trauma patient lies before you. When would you perform an emergency thoracotomy? A case-based Q&A approach to the indications and contraindications. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174622 Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:10 +0100 5174622 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5175808&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F29%2Femergency-response-protocols%2F Model Procedures for Response of Emergency Vehicles During Hurricanes and Tropical Storms International Association of Fire Chiefs.  January 2008. http://bit.ly/o4NHAf (pdf file) The purpose of this guide is to provide guidance to chief officers in establishing a policy for response during hurricanes and coastal storms to minimize the risk to fire/EMS personnel and to protect the human, physical and cyber infrastructure critical to safeguard a community before, during and after a storm. This guidance provides a common framework on which departments may build a local protocol tailored to a specific community. [MRCLEADERS-L] (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5175808 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 19:20:49 +0100 5175808 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5174623&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Ft2VfNF7BdPo%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5174623 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 02:06:00 +0100 5174623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169546&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fresearch-shows-decrease-in-time-from-hospital-arrival-to-heart-attack-treatment%2F2011.08.27 Heart attack patients are now being treated on average 32 minutes faster than they were five years ago, and medical societies are touting it as evidence of the success of national campaigns to treat heart attacks more quickly. The study, “Improvements in Door-to-Balloon Time in the United States: 2005-2010,” found that the average time from hospital arrival to treatment declined from 96 minutes in 2005 to just 64 minutes in 2010. In addition, more than 90% of heart attack patients who required emergency angioplasty in 2010 received treatment within the recommended 90 minutes, up from 44% in 2005. Also, the study reported that (more…) *This blog post was originally published at ACP Hospitalist* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169546 Sat, 27 Aug 2011 18:15:00 +0100 5169546 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5169552&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-state-of-drug-seeking-in-america-nothing-should-hurt%2F2011.08.26 This might sting a little… When I was a child, I was often painted orange with Merthiolate.  My grandmother, like every good grandmother, kept a bottle handy at all times.  Merthiolate was an antiseptic, containing Mercury, that was marketed for cuts and scrapes. A fall on the gravel, a slide on the pavement, a run through the briar patch and you’d be sitting on the kitchen table while grandma colored you orange with the magical elixir, which incidentally burned like fire! On a recent emergency department shift, we were colluding about the general state of drug-seeking in America, which has been enabled by our ‘nothing should hurt’ ideology.   One of my dear friends, Nurse Nancy, had a realization; an epiphany, really. (more…) *This blog post was originally publ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5169552 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:00:34 +0100 5169552 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161729&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F26%2Fnlm-emergency-responder-tools%2F Upcoming Enhancements to WISER http://wiser.nlm.nih.gov/ Look for new enhancements to the content and functionality of both WISER for iPhone/iPod touch and WISER for Android in the coming months, including the addition of WISER’s popular help identify feature and access to WISER’s suite of tools. Android App for WISER Now Available https://market.android.com/details?id=gov.nih.nlm.wiser The first release of WISER for Android is now available!  Take a look at Introducing WISER for Android to peek at the features of this initial release: Leverage WISER’s full database of chemical, biological, and radiological substances from your Android device. Search WISER’s full list of known substances.  Take advantage of WISER’s new simplified search. Search by name or ID using ... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161729 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:26:07 +0100 5161729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158832&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2FdHsDeIZF5YE%2Ftalk-patients-sending-home-ed.html So you’re not having a heart attack like your wife thought. That’s the good news. But what is wrong, what did cause that pain, and what should you do from here on out?That’s the purpose of discharge instructions, and it’s not enough for the ED staff to just print out some forms, say “sign here,” and send you on your way.What constitutes good discharge instructions, and why are they critical in the decision to pursue or defend a malpractice case?Read the rest of Talk to your patients before sending them home from the ED on KevinMD.com.Category: Patient | Tags: Emergency, Malpractice | No comment (Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog) Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158832 Fri, 26 Aug 2011 11:00:13 +0100 5158832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161730&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F25%2Fhurricane-food-safety%2F http://1.usa.gov/qN8cec Before and after weather emergencies, it is important to have a plan in place for emergency medication, food and water, and medical supplies for both humans and animals. This is especially true for taking care of individuals with health concerns, particularly if the power goes out. This resource from the FDA provides information to help you prepare. (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161730 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 20:47:54 +0100 5161730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159197&cid=t_97762_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F08%2F25%2Fusing-tragedy-to-justify-mental-health-services-in-delaware%2F In a letter that could’ve been written in virtually any state by any National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) representative, NAMI Delaware executive director Matthew Stehl and president Mary Berger recently wrote an op-ed for Delaware’s leading newspaper, The News Journal. In the opinion piece, Stehl and Berger decry the lack of adequate funding for mental illness treatment in the state. In a period of economic recession, state-funded health and human services are usually the first to undergo cuts. But it’s an especially relevant issue in Delaware, because the U.S. Department of Justice struck an agreement with the state to ensure it improves its mental health services for its indigent and poor residents who need mental health services. All of which is good. I’m ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159197 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 18:55:45 +0100 5159197 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5158995&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Freducing-the-use-of-ct-scans-in-children%2F2011.08.25 Well, this is satisfying. Over the years, in our ER we have mirrored the nationwide trend and have significantly increased the utilization of CT scans across the board. The reasons are manifold. Some cite malpractice risks, and indeed in our large group we have had one lawsuit for a pediatric head injury and another for a missed appendicitis which probably did contribute. But, in my opinion, there have been many other drivers of the increased use. For one, CTs have gotten way, way better over the last 15 years, which quite simply has made them a better diagnostic tool. They’ve also gotten way faster. As the facilities have invested in CT scanners, they have increased their capacity and increased their staffing, so the barriers to their use have rapidly diminished. I am so old that I ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5158995 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 12:00:00 +0100 5158995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5161736&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F24%2Fhurricanes-and-earthquakes%2F Hurricanes http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/enviro/hurricane.html Resources about hurricanes, the health effects and the hazards associated with clean-up and recovery. Earthquakes: Resources for Response and Recovery http://sis.nlm.nih.gov/dimrc/earthquakes.html Links to disaster health resources about earthquakes including information about treatments for injuries, dealing with mass fatalities, coping with stress, guidelines for responders, and environmental health and sanitation in recovery and clean-up efforts. (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5161736 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:52:05 +0100 5161736 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159265&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Fi5_13bnxbZQ%2Fheart-test-laboratories-myovista-system-to-present-results-of-clinical-trials-at-the-american-heart-association-scientific-sessions.html Heart Test Laboratories will be presenting clinical trial results of their Myovista cardiac screening system at the American Heart Association (AHA) Scientific Sessions in November 2011.  The proprietary patent-pending device is a portable diagnostic screening device that uses ECG technology to potentially detect coronary artery disease within minutes. The technology uses three-dimensional mapping and proprietary algorithms that continuously multiplex surface electrodes to provide information in regards to potential obstruction in the coronary arteries.  Heart Test Laboratories claim to have an impressive average 90% or greater correlation to an invasive angiogram with the MyoVista technology.  The device was awarded CE Marking in September 2010.  Look here on Medgadget for follow up f... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159265 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 18:09:52 +0100 5159265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159267&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FzmVPncSmu00%2Fphysio-control-releases-readylink-12-lead-ecg-for-emergency-responders.html Physio-Control, a division of Medtronic for not much longer, has unveiled the ReadyLink 12-Lead ECG. The device allows paramedics to transmit ECG data to hospital physicians via the LIFENET network and get immediate cardiac specialist opinion on the readings. In particular, the firm hopes that first responders will be able to quickly identify patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarctions (STEMI), hopefully leading to earlier treatment and more lives saved. From the announcement: As simple as it is portable, ReadyLink only requires a three-step process to capture and transmit a 12-lead ECG: 1) prepare patient’s skin and place electrodes; 2) one-button push to acquire 12-lead ECG; and 3) one-button push to transmit ECG to selected hospital facility via the LIFENET System. Addi... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159267 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 18:00:36 +0100 5159267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159008&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FA_Uef_POJIA%2F "VT or not VT? That is the question..." you muse. Then your patient Bill says "A shock, a shock, my kingdom for a shock"... (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159008 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 00:00:08 +0100 5159008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159009&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fs7S_ZPgTeFY%2F A case-based Q&A on the assessment and management of patients presenting with suspected rectal foreign bodies. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159009 Tue, 23 Aug 2011 00:00:50 +0100 5159009 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5159010&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FYnCNffSklNA%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5159010 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:32:21 +0100 5159010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5143753&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F19%2Femergency-preparedness-events%2F Webinar: Measuring Return on Preparedness Investments Emergency Management Forum http://emforum.org/ Wednesday, August 24, 2011, beginning at 12:00 Noon Eastern time (please convert to your local time). Topic: a new paper, recently released by IAEM-USA for review and comment, titled Preparedness: A Principled Approach to Return on Investment http://bit.ly/nxgaDw. The paper presents a proposed process to developing measures of return on investment for preparedness grant programs, especially the Emergency Management Performance Grant program (EMPG), based on previously articulated emergency management principles. IAEM requests that review comments be submitted by September 2, 2011. The guest will be IAEM-USA Governmental Affairs Committee Chair Randall C. Duncan, and Director of the Sedgwick... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5143753 Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:30:18 +0100 5143753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5143754&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F18%2Fcommunicating-risk%2F and Benefits: An Evidence-Based User’s Guide http://1.usa.gov/nW0iDG [pdf] Baruch Fischhoff, PhD, Noel T. Brewer, PhD, & Julie S. Downs, PhD, editors US Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Effective risk communication is essential to the well-being of any organization and those people who depend on it. Ineffective communication can cost lives, money, and reputations. Communicating Risks and Benefits: An Evidence-Based User’s Guide provides the scientific foundations for effective communication. [HealthLiteracy] (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5143754 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 19:12:28 +0100 5143754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139757&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1811 On a scale of one to ten, What is your loneliness? Think of one as a day when your Family was out shopping, Laughing, going to movies, but You were sick in bed. Ten is Like everyone you knew Perished, or decided you were Worthless and abandoned you. What about your fear? Ten is the worst, one is the least. Be candid; maybe we can help. One is when you reach Into your desk drawer and Find a rubber spider, a ridiculous Fuzzy black joke that Makes you fall out of Your swivel chair while across The divider coworkers laugh. Five is the idea that everyone In the world knows your thoughts, Knows your hopes and how to Shatter them. Eight that everyone Knows what you think of them, Including her. Ten is that nothing about you Is a secret to anyone. Tell me about your sadness. Ten is the memory ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139757 Thu, 18 Aug 2011 15:28:20 +0100 5139757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5143760&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F17%2Ffb-disasters-app-challenge%2F Lifeline Facebook App Challenge’ http://1.usa.gov/n9GIZ1 http://1.usa.gov/nJQU3w (correction to original post) Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, HHS. SUMMARY: The “Lifeline Facebook App Challenge” is a challenge aimed at multidisciplinary teams of technology developers, entrepreneurs, and members of the disaster preparedness, response and recovery communities to use Facebook as a platform for connecting individuals together through an application (app) that will provide actionable steps for Facebook users to increase their own personal preparedness and strengthen connections within their social networks for the sake of personal preparedness and community resilience. This challenge will provide useful tools for public health promotion and pro... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5143760 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 20:40:29 +0100 5143760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5139747&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fa1y67ymUsQ4%2F A review of the literature on the assessment and management of the patient suffering from cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5139747 Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:35 +0100 5139747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130755&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F2f35u3XOAFo%2F New rappers on the medical rap scene The Bougie Foundation, rap out their door-to-gangsta-times on LITFL. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130755 Tue, 16 Aug 2011 06:00:42 +0100 5130755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130654&cid=t_97762_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F08%2F15%2Fthe-queen%25e2%2580%2599s-ambulance-service-medal-qam%2F Scan or Click to Download 'The Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal (QAM)' Title: The Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) The Skinny: Details the issue of a Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) to recognise distinguished service by the ambulance service. The Command Paper [Cm 8140] was laid before Parliament on 11 July 2011 instituting the QAM. A copy of the Command Paper is available with further information on the criteria for eligibility, along with details on how to nominate individuals for the Medal. Publisher: DH Published: 11/07/11 Size: 5p. Additional Documents: The Queen’s Ambulance Service Medal (QAM) Guidance Filed under: Ooops Missed Category! Tagged: Ambulance care assistants, Ambulance Services, Ambulance staff, Ambulance technicians, Awards, Control assistant... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130654 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 14:21:38 +0100 5130654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5130757&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fkeul9R00j44%2F The LITFL weekly review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5130757 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 02:56:21 +0100 5130757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5119906&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F12%2Fwebinar-healthmap%2F Wednesday, August 17, 2011,   2:00pm – 3:00pm EDT Presenter, David Scales, MD, PhD HealthMap http://www.healthmap.org/en/ Register for the webinar http://conta.cc/ofcg5o This webinar will use HealthMap‘s experience during the 2010 cholera outbreak in Haiti to examine emerging data sources for epidemic surveillance, the use of social media and other new media and how all this fits together in regard to emergency preparedness and response. Dr. Scales contends that we are a network of networks reaching out into our respective communities while sharing experience and lessons learned in expert forums. HealthMap’s experience suggests that if we can leverage bilateral information flows between our respective networks, our  information and communication efforts will benefit, esp... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5119906 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 13:55:05 +0100 5119906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125743&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fer-nurse-explains-what-its-really-like-to-be-an-rn%2F2011.08.12 You want to be a registered nurse? Let’s cut through the B.S. and get real about it. Put a hold on all this soft-focus “I live to care!” or “It gives my life meaning…” Here’s the reality. *** You will study your butt off. Nursing science is based on biology, chemistry, microbiology, anatomy, physiology, psychology, sociology and philosophy. Yeah, every single one of them. You will incorporate those into every decision you make in your practice. It’s called critical thinking. You master it and become a professional, or you don’t and you become a robotic technician. Bottom line. Your choice. Oh, and the studying doesn’t stop after you graduate. Nursing school is just the warm-up. *** The work is physically exhausting and emotionally demanding. (more…) *... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125743 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 12:00:35 +0100 5125743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5125760&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1796 Moped vs. Groundhog:  a play based on a true story. Groundhog Union Local 17 approved this post Driver on moped, busy rural road:  ngngngngngngngnggn, putter, putter, ngngng… Groundhog:  Munch, much, waddle, waddle. Moped:  ngngngngngngngngng, putter, spas, skip, ngngngng Groundhog:  Looks up, curious, munch, munch, waddle, waddle. Moped driver sees furry beast, doesn’t worry.  Riding manly moped:  ngngngngngngng, whine, ngngng, choke, ngngngng Groundhog:  Munch, munch, more curious, waddle, waddle, sit up, munch.  Head turned toward sound. Moped driver:  Puts the hammer down.  ngngngngngngngngng, cough, cough, skip, ngngng.  Ramming speed of some 15 nautical miles per hour. Groundhog:  relatively low IQ.  Munch, munch.  ‘Maybe I should move!  Aw, $%#@ no,... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5125760 Fri, 12 Aug 2011 02:10:08 +0100 5125760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118734&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F7ZoFm-D13ro%2Fdigitial-dog-tags-for-your-personal-health-records.html Asahi Kasei, a Japanese technology company, has just developed a small RFID tag (pictured) for storing personal health records. The device allows clinicians and emergency response personnel to instantly access a patient’s health records using a phone or laptop.The tag incorporates Sony’s FeliCa smart card technology as it is currently compatible with a  large number of Japanese devices which incorporate FeliCa card readers. In an emergency or clinical setting, paramedics or clinicians can tap the tag against compatible equipment to view the medical data of its owner in just a few seconds. Asahi Kasei says that a patient’s entire medical history can be viewed. If the clinician needs to view larger data files, the tag can provide links to the data which is stored on extern... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118734 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 18:16:37 +0100 5118734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118641&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fbeing-a-doctor-is-a-lot-like-being-a-parent-you-cant-tap-out%2F2011.08.11 The American College of Graduate Medical Education has enacted further restrictions on resident work hours.  No more than 80 hours per week of work for resident physicians, averaged over one month.  And no more than 16 hours of continuous work for first year residents (24 after that), which includes patient care, academic lectures, etc. Whenever they do this sort of thing, everyone seems excited that it will make everyone safer.  After all, residents won’t be working as much, so they’ll be more rested and make much better decisions.  It’s all ‘win-win,’ as physicians in training and patients alike are safer. I guess.  The problem of course is that after training, work hours aren’t restricted.  There is no set limit on the amount of work a physician can be expected to do, ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118641 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 18:05:30 +0100 5118641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118658&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1789 In following the stories out of the UK, I am saddened by the violence and senseless destruction in the nation that so many of us look to as kindred.  Many of us have a deep, almost genetic, reverence for the land of so many of our ancestors.  I certainly wish we could once again unite and rise up, standing for freedom and the greatness of the West.  Alas, not yet. http://www.foxnews.com/world/2011/08/11/london-police-raiding-houses-over-uk-riots/?test=latestnews It is, of course, like all such violence in places where a perfect storm of ideology brews. Closing the trough First, young poor people, told for decades it was the duty of the government and taxpayers to care for them, become animal-like when their feed-trough is threatened.  And, animal-like, brutal in nature, ‘red in t... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118658 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 13:54:36 +0100 5118658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118653&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FW-aNiA8dkQc%2F The trailer for the documentary '24 hours in the ER' - this looks like one thats not to be missed. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118653 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 06:33:20 +0100 5118653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5119914&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F10%2Fdisaster-information-outreach%2F The National Library of Medicine (NLM) announces a new funding opportunity for small pilot projects to improve access to disaster medicine and public health information for health care professionals, first responders and others that play a role in health-related disaster preparedness, response and recovery. NLM is soliciting proposals from partnerships that include at least one library and at least one non-library organization that has disaster-related responsibilities, such as a hospital, volunteer organization, public health department, public safety department, fire/rescue, or other local, regional or state agency. NLM encourages submission of innovative proposals that enhance mutually beneficial collaboration among libraries and disaster-related agencies. For example, projects may incr... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5119914 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 21:40:14 +0100 5119914 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5119915&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F10%2Fnatural-disaster-health-workforce%2F http://bit.ly/oO2vYg Monday, September 19 and Tuesday, September 20, 2011 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Washington, DC – Crystal City The workforce conference is being held to accomplish three objectives on behalf of the NCDMPH’s latest draft of the Report on Health Professions Workforce http://bit.ly/ojShE2 (Domestic Natural Disaster). The conference’s three objectives are:     To contribute to selected aspects of the workforce report such as workforce supply, volunteerism and barriers     To consider input on next steps for additional case studies and for expanding the scope of the report beyond natural disaster     To present the initial case study and seek feedback on the pilot case study methodology   (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5119915 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:50:06 +0100 5119915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118659&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1786 Our county recently had a large drug-bust.  Some 37 people were arrested, for a variety of charges, from distribution to manufacturing and all the rest. Since it was in the paper, and public knowledge, I felt it important to find out how many of them were regular ‘customers’ of the emergency department. Of the 37 arrested, there were some 167 ED visits over the past few years since we have had EMR. Now, what do we do with that number?  What does the customer service model say?  What do we feel about the need for insurance, or other social supports, provided by government? Complicated question, I suppose.  But looking through the chief complaints, it seems that an inordinate number were for painful conditions. As prescription drug abuse skyrockets, as deaths from those drugs... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118659 Wed, 10 Aug 2011 03:26:22 +0100 5118659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5109435&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F08%2Fep-video-contest%2F http://www.getreadyforflu.org/videocontest.htm The American Public Health Association’s Get Ready campaign helps Americans prepare themselves, their families and their community for disasters including pandemic flu, infectious disease outbreaks, natural disasters and other public health emergencies.  In recognition of National Preparedness Month this September, they are launching a video contest to heighten students’ awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness.  Do children and teens know where to go if a hurricane is on the way?  Do they have an emergency kit at home, or know what should go into one? Students enrolled in sixth through 12th grade as of fall 2011 can submit a short PSA video, no longer than one minute, that illustrates the importance of emergency prepar... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5109435 Tue, 09 Aug 2011 01:58:47 +0100 5109435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5107526&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F15W16oOgdJ8%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5107526 Mon, 08 Aug 2011 00:35:15 +0100 5107526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103350&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1773 The American College of Graduate Medical Education has enacted further restrictions on resident work hours.  No more than 80 hours per week of work for resident physicians, averaged over one month.  And no more than 16 hours of continuous work for first year residents (24 after that), which includes patient care, academic lectures, etc. Whenever they do this sort of thing, everyone seems excited that it will make everyone safer.  After all, residents won’t be working as much, so they’ll be more rested and make much better decisions.  It’s all ‘win-win,’ as physicians in training and patients alike are safer. I guess.  The problem of course is that after training, work hours aren’t restricted.  There is no set limit on the amount of work physician c... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103350 Sat, 06 Aug 2011 03:31:30 +0100 5103350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5103394&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FQ9mRCjXmKms%2Fnovel-watch-based-device-detects-pulselessness-in-humans.html This study was designed to simulate cardiac arrest and assess the device’s ability to correctly identify pulse status.  24 hospitalized patients and 10 patients planned for implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) testing were enrolled in the trial.  Pulselessness was simulated in the hospitalized patients via inflation of a blood pressure cuff on the same arm as the watch while they held still.  Ventricular fibrillation was induced in the 10 ICD patients as part of normal protocol to test the ICDs – essentially creating a pulseless, motionless state.  Of the 34 subjects, 5 had unusable signals, device ejection, or too much motion artifact.  Of the 29 remaining, the device correctly identified a pulse state in 3 of 4 patients and the time of pulselessness in 23 of 25 patie... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5103394 Fri, 05 Aug 2011 17:06:56 +0100 5103394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096217&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fz_hroKVr_D8%2F Sick of your patients waiting in the ED for life saving treatment as a result of interminable ICU / CCU bed-block? Worry no more...move to Indonesia (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096217 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 06:10:43 +0100 5096217 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096221&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1769 We are called by Christ, among other things, to mourn with those who mourn, to weep with those who weep. This sometimes happens, suddenly and briefly, in the emergency room.  I was sitting at my desk one quiet morning recently.  EMS traffic caught my ear and I learned that there had been a terrible accident not far from the hospital.  However, far enough that the regional helicopter had been called to the scene. One patient would fly out.  One patient, one poor girl, one daughter, would not fly out.  And she would not come to me for care.  She died on the road at about 7:15 am.  She died on the road I sometimes drive to work, about 20 minutes after I would have passed the exact place she passed from this life. I was stricken, I was saddened.  Father of four, I was nauseated and hea... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096221 Wed, 03 Aug 2011 02:42:20 +0100 5096221 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5088432&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F08%2F02%2Fmedia-guidelines%2F http://bit.ly/qmNn0S Eva Valenti on August 1st, 2011 SCOPE A group of health-care journalists and public health officials have joined up to create a set of voluntary guidelines on what information journalists should release about deaths, epidemics, and emerging diseases. Guidance on the release of information concerning deaths, epidemics or emerging diseases http://bit.ly/n3dpTP   (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5088432 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 17:58:09 +0100 5088432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5096218&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FUSTuFGYGhvM%2F LITFL puts you to the test, with 10 of the best Questions and Answer from this months EM Critical Care Article on Noninvasive Ventilation. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5096218 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 01:52:36 +0100 5096218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086181&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F6lpnY5uHtW0%2F LITFL puts you to the test, with 10 of the best Questions and Answer from this months EM Critical Care Article on Noninvasive Ventilation. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086181 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 01:52:36 +0100 5086181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086307&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FMvx06NzFUfM%2Fcool-it-no-really%25e2%2580%25a6it-may-make-a-difference-between-life-and-death.html Remember the Arctic Sun, a non-invasive system designed to rapidly manage the core temperature of critically ill patients? Further studies continue to demonstrate its positive role in treating out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients via therapeutic hypothermia. In the July 12, 2011 issue of Circulation, Michael Mooney, et al. from  Minneapolis Heart Institute and Northwestern University in Chicago published data on 140 consecutive OHCA patients who were treated and transferred to a central therapeutic hypothermia-capable hospital. Patients were initially cooled in the ambulances or referring hospitals with ice packs and then transferred to the central hospital where they were further cooled and maintained at 33°C (92°F) for 24 hours with the Arctic Sun device (Medivance, Louisvil... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086307 Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:47:21 +0100 5086307 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5086172&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Foverwhelmed-ers-continue-to-rise-to-the-challenge%2F2011.07.31 Last night I was contacted by a physician in the local urgent-care.   I like him, and we made polite, but brief, conversation.  ‘So, are you guys busy?’ I gave him the status report.  ‘Well, yeah.  We have about 25 people waiting to be seen the waiting room is full and every patient room is full.  Also, we just received a gun-shot wound to the head by EMS.’ ‘Wow, sounds terrible!  So, here’s what I need to send you…’ What he sent was, in fact, reasonable.  A young woman with signs and symptoms of meningitis (who was treated earlier in the day for and upper respiratory virus…with Amoxicillin, of course.) She needed a lumbar puncture, which I performed and which was  negative. But I had this thought.  I could probably have said, (more…) *This blog ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5086172 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 21:00:39 +0100 5086172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5079440&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F07%2F29%2Fin-case-of-emergency-check-twitter%2F http://t.co/FhIbzfN By Neil Versel InformationWeek July 29, 2011 Twitter, Facebook, and online communities can help healthcare organizations, emergency personnel, and government agencies better prepare for and respond to emergencies, so it’s a good idea to integrate these technologies into planning, according to three public-health professionals. “Clearly, social media are changing the way people communicate not only in their day-to-day lives, but also during disasters that threaten public health. Engaging with and using emerging social media may well place the emergency-management community, including medical and public health professionals, in a better position to respond to disasters,” Dr. Raina M. Merchant, Stacy Elmer and Dr. Nicole Lurie of the U.S. Department of He... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5079440 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 19:12:22 +0100 5079440 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5079444&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F07%2F28%2Fph-emergency-response-guide%2F US DHHS/CDC. 2011 http://emergency.cdc.gov/planning/responseguide.asp English and Spanish PDF files to download The Public Health Emergency Response Guide for State, Local, and Tribal Public Health Directors is an all-hazards reference tool for health professionals who are responsible for initiating the public health response during the first 24 hours (i.e., the acute phase) of an emergency or disaster. It provides useful information on the activation and integration of a jurisdiction’s public health system into the existing emergency response structure during the acute phase of an incident. It also contains guidance that is applicable to specific types of incidents, such as floods, earthquakes, and acts of terrorism. The guide is not a substitute for emergency preparedness activities a... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5079444 Fri, 29 Jul 2011 02:55:23 +0100 5079444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5077697&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FcAKgzU3LuFY%2F In the critical care specialties we have to make things happen, sometimes this involves life-saving actions that may have never before performed. We must be ready, after all, in the words of Peter Safar, "it's up to us to save the world!" Cliff Reid tells us how. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5077697 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:43 +0100 5077697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5070249&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F07%2F27%2Findividual-community-prep-awards-submissions%2F http://go.usa.gov/BtQ Entries must be received by August 26, 11:59 p.m. E.D.T. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is pleased to announce that the Agency is currently accepting submissions for the 2011 Individual and Community Preparedness Awards. Formerly the National Citizen Corps Achievement Awards, the name was changed to reflect FEMA’s intent to recognize the innovative and outstanding achievements of all of the individuals, communities, and organizations working to ensure that the United States is better prepared and more resilient. The Awards showcase the work of the Agency’s partners at the State, territorial, local, and tribal levels. This includes non-governmental organizations in the non-profit, faith-based, and private sector communities, as well as and diverse i... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5070249 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 19:50:02 +0100 5070249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069476&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthe-surprising-life-saving-advantage-of-facebook%2F2011.07.26 “Health is social,” says SPM member Phil Baumann, RN (@PhilBaumann) at HealthIsSocial.com. Slate has a dramatic story of how a mother’s Facebook network helped spot – rapidly – Kawasaki Disease, a rare auto-immune disease that the family’s doctors had initially missed. Her social network contains some medically knowledgeable people. (Do you have any docs, nurses, etc in your Facebook circle?) Note that friends’ availability is sometimes far greater than a doctor’s office. Read how the diagnosis unfolded. And read what her family physician said, when she called from the E.R.: “You know what?” he said, “I was actually just thinking it could be Kawasaki disease. Makes total sense. Bravo, Facebook.” Then this, as the crisis wound down: (more…) *This blog... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069476 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 21:00:21 +0100 5069476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069485&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1750 Last night I was contacted by a physician in the local urgent-care.   I like him, and we made polite, but brief, conversation.  ‘So, are you guys busy?’ I gave him the status report.  ‘Well, yeah.  We have about 25 people waiting to be seen the waiting room is full and every patient room is full.  Also, we just received a gun-shot wound to the head by EMS.’ ‘Wow, sounds terrible!  So, here’s what I need to send you…’ What he sent was, in fact, reasonable.  A young woman with signs and symptoms of meningitis (who was treated earlier in the day for and upper respiratory virus…with Amoxicillin, of course.) She needed a lumbar puncture, which I performed and which was  negative. But I had this thought.  I could probably have said,... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069485 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 14:35:39 +0100 5069485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5069483&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FQjFJJAGGWqo%2F Sim Wars is coming to Australia... Find out what its all about and enter your team to chase the glory at www.acem2011.com (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5069483 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:34:12 +0100 5069483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062290&cid=t_97762_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F07%2F25%2Fneed-mental-health-treatment-in-2-weeks-fat-chance%2F This study demonstrates quite the opposite. Read the full article: Medical News: Barriers High in Mental Health Care (Source: World of Psychology) World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062290 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 20:15:01 +0100 5062290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062255&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1745 Good news on disability:  or should I say ‘disability.’ Anyone working in social services or medicine (well, anyone with half a cerebrum and some rational thinking capacity mixed in with their compassion) knows that the disability system in the US is completely out of control.  We routinely see patients who say, when queried about their disability, ‘well doc, honestly, I don’t know why I’m on disability!’  Which is fine if you’ve had a serious head injury or stroke, but if your complaint is ‘injured back while using chain-saw,’ maybe disability is a little generous. So, here’s some light in the darkness: http://lsolum.typepad.com/legaltheory/2011/07/pierce-on-administrative-law-judge-disability-decisionmaking.html Hallelujah! ... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062255 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:03:37 +0100 5062255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062241&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fthrombolytics-to-give-or-not-to-give%2F2011.07.25 For years now, we’ve all heard the drum-beat.  Bill-boards in cities have proclaimed it.  Various medical associations have touted it’s importance.  Stroke symptoms have to be treated immediately!  Give clot-busting drugs, also known as ‘thrombolytics!’ Until, of course, those in favor of giving the drugs (namely neurologists)  realized that a)  Not everyone with a stroke, aka ‘brain attack’ has insurance and b) people have a very inconsiderate habit of having said strokes at the most inconvenient of hours.  For instance, after 5PM, on the weekend, on holidays.  The nerve! So across the country, physicians in emergency departments like mine are finding themselves expected by the court of public opinion to give a potentially dangerous drug (albeit a sometimes useful drug... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062241 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:00:57 +0100 5062241 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062192&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2FJ0LD0ODrTkk%2Finevitability-aids-presence-addiction.html Jackson’s blood pressure was low, and this had the emergency room physician scrambling, barking orders.  A nurse was busy at each arm, attempting to place large-bore IV’s so that fluids could be given rapidly and thus improve the low blood pressure.  Other nurses were preparing strong antibiotics for immediate administration.  An automated blood pressure cuff was attached to the left arm, inflating every 3-4 minutes with a characteristic grinding sound.  Monitoring leads attached to Jackson’s chest gave real-time information regarding the heart rate and rhythm.  This was emergency room chaos of the organized type that happens when young people with advanced AIDS become gravely ill.  Without an effectively functioning immune system, these patients can succumb quickly to infectio... Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062192 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:00:17 +0100 5062192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062251&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F7B6Augv049A%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062251 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 07:36:13 +0100 5062251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5062250&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fto-admit-or-not-to-admit-that-is-the-question-whitecoats-call-room.html Gastroenterologist Michael Kirsch put up a post on his blog that was then reposted over at ACP Hospitalist asking where the threshold for admitting a patient to the hospital should be. He asserts that there should be more collaboration between medical colleagues to determine whether or not a patient needs to be hospitalized… via To Admit or Not to Admit? That is the Question. | WhiteCoat’s Call Room. Another WhiteCoat tour de force. Related posts:Dr. Perfect | WhiteCoat’s Call Room …Actually, statements like that do serve one purpose. They make... The Case of the Crazy Rabid Squirrel | WhiteCoat’s Call Room Read the rest, and wonder. Others practice risk-avoidance to the... Joint Commission – Anti-Safety in Action | WhiteCoat’s Call Room “Severe pa... GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5062250 Sun, 24 Jul 2011 22:29:32 +0100 5062250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5057717&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2011%2F07%2Fmarried-men-seek-help-for-heart-attacks-faster.html Men: Listen to your wives! It could save your life. Fast treatment after a heart attack can make the difference between life and death. So, if you experience chest pain, the sooner you get treated the better. But many people who get chest pain delay going to the emergency room, maybe because they don’t want to make a fuss, or they’re not sure whether their symptoms are serious. A new study shows that married men are much more likely to make it to the emergency room within six hours of chest pain starting, compared with men who are single or living alone. About 75 in 100 married people got help promptly, compared with 68 in 100 people who were single, 69 in 100 who were divorced, and 71 in 100 who were widowed. The study, which looked at 4,000 people in Canada, found men w... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5057717 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 20:40:00 +0100 5057717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5057790&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FMqLbb4cDhNU%2Fdiagnostic-imaging-pathways-app-for-ipad.html University of Western Australia’s Centre for Software Practice has released an iPhone app to help doctors decide what imaging modality is most appropriate for a particular patient. The tool was developed along with Department of Imaging Services at the Royal Perth Hospital and is now available at the iTunes App Store for $26. Diagnostic Imaging Pathways includes more than 130 pathways covering all the major organ systems and common clinical scenarios. The pathways have been developed based on broad clinical consensus, and best-available evidence, and are under continuous review and development. The principle clinical lead behind the Diagnostic Imaging Pathways, Professor Richard Mendelson, said the application will help doctors make the right decisions delivering the right treatment ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5057790 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 18:36:52 +0100 5057790 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5057794&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FBDvwYc3vTEA%2Fspacelabs-healthcare-xprezzon-patient-monitor-from-the-future-also-viewable-on-ipad.html Spacelabs Healthcare (named so because it originally developed telemetry devices to monitor the vital signs of orbiting astronauts) has recently launched XPREZZON, a patient monitor that pretty much fullfills all the wishes we ever had for a monitor and that also makes some clever use of existing remote desktop technology. It has a sleek, frameless, iPad-like high resolution touchscreen display. It can display custom trends which can be accessed with a single touch, or they can be displayed continuously and arranged to the user’s liking. It has bright LED alarm lights both on the front and the back. For those accustomed to dual-screen desktop set-ups, a second display can be attached to the monitor, acting as a secondary screen for charting and other clinical applications. Under the ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5057794 Fri, 22 Jul 2011 15:08:50 +0100 5057794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050603&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1737 Leap’s quotient   The number of F-bombs used is inversely proportional to the chance of receiving narcotic analgesics in the emergency department.   That is,  # F-bomb=1/narcotic Rx (Source: edwinleap.com) edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050603 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 14:50:28 +0100 5050603 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050604&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1735 Look, I have no delusions that I’m a psychiatrist. (Get it?  Delusions?)  My specialty encompasses many things, but my general involvement with psychiatry is trying to assess depression, anxiety, psychosis and suicidal ideations; or the risk for future suicidal or homocidal events.  I do practice medicine well. As an emergency physician, I know sick.  It’s what I was trained to do, and what I have practice for nearly two decades. So I find it very unsettling to have this conversation, prior to a psychiatric hospital accepting a patient: ‘We can’t accept him, he has an elevated white blood count.  It’s 13,000.’ ‘He fell down, it means nothing.  He has no focus of infection.’ ‘He might be medically unstable, or have an infection. Yo... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050604 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:37:14 +0100 5050604 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050580&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Frecognizing-different-arrhythmias-theres-an-app-for-that%2F2011.07.21 The recognition and management of cardiac arrhythmias is a must-have clinical skill for residents and physicians, and one that is often not well-taught at some institutions. For example, deciding whether a patient is in a shockable rhythm, realizing what medications should or should not be given in a particular situation, or assessing the degree of atrioventricular block, can all be important considerations in patient care. The Arrhythmias app, designed by Abe Balsamo, recently cracked the Top 10 list of most-downloaded medical apps in the app store.  This app represents Mr. Balsamo’s first foray into the app world, though he has several other apps in development, according to his website AppsByAbe.com.  The app’s growing popularity has been driven by its point-of-care abilities that... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050580 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 12:00:55 +0100 5050580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050597&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FUa00kaWpclI%2F Welcome to the impressive 27th edition! The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. Each week the LITFL team will cast the spotlight on the best and brightest from the blogosphere, the podcast video/audiosphere and the [...] (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050597 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 13:55:15 +0100 5050597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5050607&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1728 For years now, we’ve all heard the drum-beat.  Bill-boards in cities have proclaimed it.  Various medical associations have touted it’s importance.  Stroke symptoms have to be treated immediately!  Give clot-busting drugs, also known as ‘thrombolytics!’ Until, of course, those in favor of giving the drugs (namely neurologists)  realized that a)  Not everyone with a stroke, aka ‘brain attack’ has insurance and b) people have a very inconsiderate habit of having said strokes at the most inconvenient of hours.  For instance, after 5PM, on the weekend, on holidays.  The nerve! So across the country, physicians in emergency departments like mine are finding themselves expected by the court of public opinion to give a potentially dangerous drug (albeit... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5050607 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 01:27:57 +0100 5050607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036240&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1726 Church Camp Helps Kids Learn How to Choose This is my column in today’s Greenville News. My wife and I just returned from helping to chaperone 20 middle and high-school students at a church camp populated by a total of 600 youth. We were at SummerSalt, the flagship camp of the South Carolina Baptist Convention, located near Winnsboro, SC at White Oak Conference Center. (Actually, I’ve always referred to it as ‘Hotternhades, South Carolina,’ but that’s just me.) Since it is a Southern Baptist Camp, let me immediately set fire to the standard ’straw-man’ stereotypes leveled at our denomination; and indeed, at evangelicals in general. We did not spend our time making lists of all the people we believed were going to hell. We did not meet secretly to d... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036240 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 18:59:47 +0100 5036240 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036238&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F1LTHl_vklng%2F Great news LITFLers, Keeping Up with Emergency Medicine is back! Once again, you can stay up to date with the literature in 10 minutes a week, for free! (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036238 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 03:37:52 +0100 5036238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036237&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F07%2Foverhead-overheard.html “Would any EMS unit that can leave, leave now? We’re out of bays.” When you run out of EMS bays (and we have several), you’re having a bad day. Related posts:How was my night? Only sorta busy until the 16 EMS’s in an hour.... A guest post from a friend who knows a thing or two about nuclear power From a High School friend who went the Navy path,... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (Source: GruntDoc) GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036237 Sat, 16 Jul 2011 06:06:34 +0100 5036237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5036311&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=34625&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FNeilVerselsHealthcareItBlog%2F%7E3%2FiOwGujYEzao%2F Remember back in February when I cut my face open at the HIMSS conference and needed medical assistance while 1,000 miles from home? I blogged then about how I used Google Maps to find an urgent care clinic close to the convention center instead of riding to a hospital emergency room in an ambulance? I’m guessing that course of action saved me at least $1,500, money that would have come out of my pocket because, as a self-employed individual, I was only able to qualify for an afford an insurance policy with a high deductible. Though most Americans still aren’t engaged as consumers when they seek healthcare services, there are tens of millions of uninsured people and a smaller number of people like me with high-deductible plans that would face the same conundrum when they have a... Neil Versel's Healthcare IT Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5036311 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 16:05:14 +0100 5036311 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028235&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Flifeinthefastlane.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2009%2F12%2FCircle_Of_Care_5.mov In response to a recent conversation with @Prof_Elemental regarding an engagement to perform at the upcoming Utopian Conference of Waiting Room Medicine, the Council executive have urged us to re-post the UCEM concept of Waiting Room design (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028235 Fri, 15 Jul 2011 07:02:49 +0100 5028235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028530&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Fs-4xj09jBs4%2Fnew-technology-paves-way-for-low-energy-cardiac-defibrillation.html One of the most dramatic scenes in medicine is reviving a patient in ventricular fibrillation using a defibrillator.  An international team of scientists however has developed a new low-energy method that may take a lot of the drama out of the procedure. Their technique, called LEAP (Low-Energy Anti-fibrillation Pacing), reduces the energy required for defibrillation by 84%. LEAP, tested in dogs, works by applying a series of five small shocks, instead of one large one. It takes advantage of the shape of the heart’s vasculature, which affects spatial patterns of electric currents, creating ‘virtual electrodes’ that essentially amplify the voltage applied to the tissue. The technique was first developed and tested in isolated pieces of dog atria and ventricles, and then l... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028530 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:04:43 +0100 5028530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028243&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1724 Does it seem ironic that ARG stands for Antibiotic Resistant Gonorrhea?  Maybe a little? In an era of movies like ‘Friends with Benefits,’ in a time when entertainers like Russell Brand and David Duchovny are treated for sexual addiction, in a time when we simply shrug off the words ‘promiscuous’ or ‘fornication; as antiquated bits of fundamentalism, we have yet another reason to pause and think. Gonorrhea that resists current antibiotic therapy. http://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/arg/default.htm It isn’t just burning, unfortunately.  It’s also infertility and in some cases infections of the blood-stream, heart valves or brain that can result from untreated (or now, untreatable) gonorrhea. But we’ll probably ignore this too.  Moderns are sim... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028243 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:00:07 +0100 5028243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028236&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FdZxZApVvIzQ%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028236 Mon, 11 Jul 2011 13:43:55 +0100 5028236 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028234&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fin-fort-worth-medstars-community-health-program-cutting-costs-improving-patients-well-being.html Kudos to MedStar (our Fort Worth EMS provider) for their excellent work on this project:   The Community Health Program was started in 2008 after MedStar officials discovered that 21 patients were using a big chunk of ambulance and emergency department resources. Those patients triggered more than 800 ambulance calls and cost the system more than $962,000 in charges, most of which were never collected because the patients lacked health insurance. Nine of the 21 were selected for the program. They experienced a 77 percent reduction in their need for services during a 30-day test. via In Fort Worth, MedStar’s Community Health Program cutting costs, improving patients’ well-being …. Related posts:Texas budget crunch could delay M.D. program in Fort Worth | Texas Legis... GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028234 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 21:18:03 +0100 5028234 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5020724&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F07%2F10%2Fdisaster-planning-tool%2F http://www.dplan.org/ dPlan is a free online tool that will help you simplify the process of writing a disaster plan. Enter information about your institution using the comprehensive fill-in-the-blank template. This template will guide you through the steps necessary for effective disaster planning. Once completed, dPlan generates a printed disaster plan specific to your institution. The resulting plan contains contact information for staff and key personnel, preventive maintenance checklists, salvage techniques, and much more. dPlan can be updated continuously to reflect the changes that occur at your institution. (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5020724 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 19:01:50 +0100 5020724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028237&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FWyjziQ_V90I%2F We review another misdirected and underdone 'research' article from the most recent issue of Emergency Medicine Australasia... (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028237 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 16:21:53 +0100 5028237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028238&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FQS1UoarrwuM%2F It is sometimes with trepidation that I tear away the anonymous brown cover concealing a furtive tome sent for review...however, having read this awesome text (twice), I attest that in this case...my fears were unjust. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028238 Sun, 10 Jul 2011 15:03:42 +0100 5028238 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5009933&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F07%2F07%2Fneighbors-matter%2F Chemical Hazards Emergency Medical Management web site http://chemm.nlm.nih.gov/index.html CHEMM was produced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, Office of Planning and Emergency Operations, in cooperation with the National Library of Medicine, Division of Specialized Information Services, and many medical, emergency response, toxicology, and other types of experts. It will Enable first responders, first receivers, other healthcare providers, and planners to plan for, respond to, recover from, and mitigate the effects of mass-casualty incidents involving chemicals Provide a comprehensive, user-friendly, web-based resource that is also downloadable in advance, so that it would be available during an event i... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5009933 Fri, 08 Jul 2011 03:50:13 +0100 5009933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5028239&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FJzcJ0iXgn6M%2F A real case highlighting the challenges of managing the critically ill obstetric patient in remote regions of Australia. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5028239 Thu, 07 Jul 2011 07:00:23 +0100 5028239 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008205&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F3S8wYPz7964%2F Insights from the podcast PE/ PERC wars that are raging on the web as a result of the clash of two New York titans on EMCrit... (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008205 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:12:58 +0100 5008205 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008206&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FXn9mMMR1B58%2F aka Hematology Hoodwinker 003 Emergency department management of the critically bleeding patient requiring massive transfusion  is an area thats constantly changing and developing, making it difficult to keep up with what we should and what we shouldn’t be doing. The National Blood Authority has just released it’s first module  Critical Bleeding/Massive Transfusion the first in a six [...] (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008206 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:35 +0100 5008206 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5008207&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fj69mxbcbNbM%2F Getting very excited about this November…as conference fever sets in If all goes to plan various members of the LITFL team will be traveling and speaking around the globe - spreading the word about the use of social media in education So far on the agenda we have…San Fransisco, Cape Town, Sydney and Molvania. Hopefully [...] (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5008207 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 06:55:02 +0100 5008207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997531&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FK8QR1AOJNx8%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997531 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:08:22 +0100 4997531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997532&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FeGWyjEbJ2TY%2F We have just started the long process of cataloguing the LITFL image collection - currently standing at 120,000 prospectively consented images from the last 15 years. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997532 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 07:28:58 +0100 4997532 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992699&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1711 This is my column in July’s EM News.  Have a restful day! http://journals.lww.com/em-news/Fulltext/2011/07000/Second_Opinion__A_Rest_for_the_Heart.10.aspx We travel to Hilton Head, SC, every spring for an ‘end of school-year’ vacation. It is a tradition that started several years ago; one which our family treasures. We plan months ahead, when we arrange lodging. Then, as the date draws closer we have to restrain ourselves from jumping up and down at odd, inappropriate times. The beach calls to us in an inexplicable way. We live in a beautiful county, surrounded by mountains and lakes. It is, in itself, a worthy destination, perfect for biking, hiking, fishing and/or kayaking. But when May rolls around, our eyes turn to the east, and we long for the sand and sea. It is on... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992699 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 22:24:09 +0100 4992699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4992690&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ffourth-of-july-top-tips-for-fireworks-safety%2F2011.07.01 As the 4th of July approaches, I’ve begun to hear fireworks exploding in my neighborhood.  It’s been dry here, so in addition to the risk of injuring a person, there is a risk of setting the fields on fire.  I sure hope my neighbors are being responsible. I hope you will all have a safe and happy July 4th.  Be safe and stay out of the ER. Please use the following tips: Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.  A responsible adult should be in charge. Read and follow all warnings and instructions. Be sure other people are out-of-range before lighting fireworks. Small children should be kept a safe distance from the fireworks; older children that use fireworks need to be carefully supervised. Do not smoke when handling any type of “live” firecracker, rocke... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4992690 Fri, 01 Jul 2011 16:00:00 +0100 4992690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984445&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fpediatric-emergency-drug-calculator-great-idea-not-ready-for-prime-time%2F2011.06.30 Pediatric Emergency Drugs is designed to be a quick med list calculator for pediatric emergencies. For folks who deal with pediatric emergencies have the challenge of not only determining the proper drugs to use, but also to get the dosage right by age. At the first page you are met with a screen to enter the age of the child and either allow the program to pick the estimated weight or put your own weight in. This is a nice feature as often in pediatric emergencies patients arrive through the door needing immediate care and a weight is unavailable. The estimated weight it appears to pick is the 50% for a boy of the selected age. Allowing you to pick the gender of the child would be helpful in narrowing down the weight a little further since girls of a given age would weigh a little less. �... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984445 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 16:00:57 +0100 4984445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984383&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2FlBnqPUhmkK8%2Fclose-abdomen-failed-rescue-silent.html by Sid Schwab, MDI didn’t know her name until it was over, much too late.What I knew was she was thirteen and that on this winter day someone in her family had been pulling her behind their car, on a sled. No doubt laughing and looking in the rear-view mirror, the person driving had whipsawed around a corner, and the young girl — probably screaming (fear? delight?) — held onto the sled as it careened off the road and into the side of a concrete culvert.The girl took the blow in the middle of her right side. Reportedly, as they helped her up, crying, she fainted. The family member did what a family member who’d pull someone behind a car on a sled would do: took her home and laid her on the couch. About forty-five minutes after that, when she was unarousable, 911 was ... Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984383 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:00:16 +0100 4984383 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4984450&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fred-neck-physician-antics%2F2011.06.29 A physician friend of mine recently bragged that, while driving along a rural South Carolina road, he had stopped, chased a timber-rattler into the bushes, located said rattler, then urinated on it. ‘I wanted to say I had peed on a rattlesnake!’  He beat a hasty retreat (and I imagine a hasty zip-up) when the snake rattled and struck at the air.  Who can blame Mr. Snake? You can take the redneck to medical school, but you’ll just get a redneck with a medical degree. Which brings me to me.  I have to work on our tool-shed/work-shop in the morning.  The tool-shed/work-shop is, however, over-run with red-wasps.  I counted no less than ten nests inside.  These are irritable, contentious creatures with no love of humanity.  If they were humans, they would be (more…) ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4984450 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 20:00:45 +0100 4984450 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975876&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1706 Trained as an emergency physician, my entire career has been spent pondering, searching for, often finding and managing the worst possible eventualities in my patients.  Chest pain is, first and foremost, a heart attack or pulmonary embolus.  Abdominal pain is appendicitis, a ruptured tubal pregnancy.  Fever with headache is meningitis.  And neck pain from a car wreck is an unstable cervical spine fracture. So it has taken enormous effort to ‘dial-down’ my response to my wife’s recent cancer, treatment and recovery.  I drive her to distraction with ‘how are you feeling?’  I pester her endlessly to eat.  I have imagined every bump or cough a metastasis.  I have envisioned all the worst outcomes imaginable.  I endlessly ‘catastrophize,’ as o... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975876 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 21:01:30 +0100 4975876 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997533&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FkIUxHYA-kTM%2F LITFL gives a shout-out to new emergency blog - EM Literature of Note. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997533 Tue, 28 Jun 2011 07:49:58 +0100 4997533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4975872&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emergencyweb.net%2Flibrary%2Fmp3.php%3Ff%3Deits_ep042_ett.mp3 The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4975872 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:04:45 +0100 4975872 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968497&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fcaffeine-who-needs-caffeine.html I walked into one of my first patients’ rooms last the other night, and saw this 3 Lead strip sitting on the counter: It was for a different patient. Took me a minute to recover, though… No related posts. Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (Source: GruntDoc) GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968497 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 18:16:14 +0100 4968497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968499&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fcompression-only-cpr-video.html Okay, it’s kind of amusing, and I hope it induces someone to learn compression only CPR. Which is WAY easier to do, and teach, than what I started with back in the day (15 compressions, 2 breaths, rinse/repeat). But if this makes Disco come back, is it worth it? via Ace. Related posts:Fort Hood Murders, one year ago today Ace of Spades HQ has a nice salute to them.... Wish comes true for cancer-stricken 10-year-old inducted into Army – Yahoo! News Most kids might hope to get an Xbox or an... Cats of War It’s not April 1st, which makes it more amusing. Slate’s... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (Source: GruntDoc) GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968499 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 08:02:16 +0100 4968499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968414&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2Fx9N7yXBztTg%2Fday-emergency-department-microcosm-real-life.html by StorytellERdoc, MDI imagine the world as a vast, boundless frontier weathered by our swirling human emotions and complicated energies–hurricanes of intense heartbreak and tornadoes of joyous, unbridled celebrations, with every weather pattern in between. Sunshine and rain included.If I could gather this world, foolishly believing that I could sweep my arms and hands through the unsuspecting air to collect a smaller, more-contained version of reality, I know with absolute sureness that what I would be left with is a typical day’s worth of experiences in the emergency department. It is a microcosm of something similar to big life.(...)Read the rest of How a day in the emergency department is a microcosm of real lifeCategory: Physician | Tags: Emergency | 2 comments (Source: Ke... Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968414 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 19:00:04 +0100 4968414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968490&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Ffood-allergies-treating-severe-allergic-reactions%2F2011.06.25 An allergic reaction in an outdoor setting can rapidly become a life-threatening emergency. While most of us think of food allergies as annoyances, they can be quite serious or even life threatening. Itchy skin rashes can progress to breathing difficulty, swollen soft tissues (e.g., lips, tongue, throat) that compromise the airway, and low blood pressure or even shock. Therefore, it’s important to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of severe allergy and to be prepared to respond rapidly in the event of an emergency. An EpiPen (an epinephrine auto-injector) The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has released Food Allergy Guidelines for healthcare professionals to help guide the care of patients with life-threatening food allergies. The full guidelines can be found ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968490 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 18:00:00 +0100 4968490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968491&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhospitalization-vs-discharge-when-is-one-the-preferred-option%2F2011.06.25 I received a call recently from an emergency room (ER) physician about a patient who presented there with rectal bleeding. Does this sound blogworthy? Hardly. We gastro physicians get this call routinely. Here’s the twist. The emergency room physician presented the case and recommended that the patient be discharged home. He was calling me to verify that our office would provide this patient with an office appointment in the near term, which we would. We had an actual dialogue. This was a refreshing experience since the typical emergency room conversation of a rectal bleeder ends differently. Here’s what usually occurs. We are contacted and are notified that the patient has been admitted to the hospital and our in-patient consultative services are being requested. In other words, we ... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968491 Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:00:00 +0100 4968491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4970319&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F06%2F23%2Fehr-impact-at-joslin%2F EHR Success Stories: Joplin Clinic Rises from the Rubble in 72 hours http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ID_6HLt9RPA This video demonstrates the impact having an electronic health record in place can have when disasters occur. Despite the loss of the hospital after the tornado swept through Joplin, Missouri, health care providers were still able to access their patients’ records within three days. (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4970319 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:36:26 +0100 4970319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4968505&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1704 Last night, working in the emergency department, I realized yet again that EMR is a problem.  While governmental bodies and consulting firms endlessly praise the utility and wonders of electronic medical records, the hard reality ‘on the ground’ is that entering electronic data, for every patient encounter, is a productivity killer. In fact, I realized that I spend far more time looking at the screen, clicking the mouse and typing the history for the patient counter than I ever spend actually talking to, and touching, the patient. I believe that EMR, while having some utility, has simply caused us to obtain and store more data than ever, most of which is unnecessary at best, and at worst, damning and confusing.  (Damning because if my vast chart conflicts with the nurse&#8217... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4968505 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 20:26:51 +0100 4968505 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997535&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FFAw3qq0vzrY%2F The AHA combine the acting skills of Ken Jeong, MD (trained physician and crazy-ass actor from the Hangover II) with the metronomic beat of Stayin' Alive to teach CPR rhythm. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997535 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:04:39 +0100 4997535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997536&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2Fi5up-SjFC0Q%2F This one's for our medical student friends... and anyone else fighting the axis of evil! Understanding axis is one of the keys to understanding ECGs. Super Axis Man (SAM) is here to help! (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997536 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 09:29:03 +0100 4997536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4960075&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1693 I haven’t worked a night shift in many months.  For a time, years ago, I worked full-time nights.  I did it for about seven years, at which time my wife told me I was acting depressed and should move to a daytime schedule.  Still, the vagaries of the ER require that we sometimes be here all night.  Blech.  So, I thought I’d take this opportunity to chronicle my thoughts through the night.  Please be patient if my thought processes seem to ramble. 1)  I had, in my lunch container, a cheeseburger, two packs of Swiss Cake Rolls, and a turkey, pepper-jack and honey-wheat bread sandwich.  I arrived at 2250.  It is 2330.  I have consumed one turkey sandwich and one pack of Swiss Cake Rolls.  It may be a long night. 2)  I came to work without sleeping much.  I simply coul... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4960075 Thu, 23 Jun 2011 04:26:16 +0100 4960075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4960120&cid=t_97762_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2011%2F06%2F22%2Fcan-you-take-someone-to-the-er-for-mental-health-help%2F When I came home from work, she was sitting on the back porch steps, crying. Another friend was sitting next to her, arms draped around her shaking shoulders, trying to understand the words in between her hiccuped sobs. “Is everything okay?” I asked, even though I knew this wasn’t just a normal bout of tears. Julie (not her real name) had been crying the entire day. When I left for work she had been sobbing in the bathroom, and (I learned later) had turned on the shower to muffle the sound of her emotion from the rest of the house so no one would come and check on her. No one knew how long she had stayed like that, melted to the bathroom floor, clutching a towel to her chest, the shower running hot and humid whenever she felt she was getting too loud. It’s possible ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4960120 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 18:45:24 +0100 4960120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4997537&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FFLVaN6eQC5w%2F At LITFL we are constantly trying to find interesting and enigmatic individuals with a passion for emergency medicine to share their experiences. We have a particular passion of International Emergency Medicine and are proud to introduce Dr Bishan Rajapakse. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4997537 Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:03:33 +0100 4997537 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4953030&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F4hfZyRZqbXY%2Fnew-allied-healthcare-mass-casualty-ventilators.html St. Louis-based Allied Healthcare has released a line of ventilators designed for mass casualty situations. During natural or man-made disasters, hospitals may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of patients needing life support, and clinical staff typically not qualified to provide life support may be required to assist. Additionally, electric power may become unavailable for stand-alone mobile ventilators that can operate for extended periods of time and demand continuous electricity. The Allied Mass Casualty Ventilators were designed for such situations, and they feature simple operation, long battery life, and are able to operate without external gas connections. “If you can’t breathe nothing else matters,” said Jack Dabrowski, Allied’s National Product Manager. “Early respon... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4953030 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:23:40 +0100 4953030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952852&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FLbq2SFrYZZ0%2F The first of EB Medicine's EM Critical Care review articles is out - here is a Q&A on respiratory monitoring inspired by this exciting new publication. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952852 Mon, 20 Jun 2011 00:00:31 +0100 4952852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952853&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FOl21m5-oQ7s%2F Introducing The African Journal of Emergency Medicine (AfJEM), the official journal of the African Federation for Emergency Medicine. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952853 Sun, 19 Jun 2011 00:00:28 +0100 4952853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952864&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1681 For all of you fans of electronic books (which have finally out-sold print books), my latest book, The Practice Test, is available as an e-book.  Here’s the link! http://booklocker.com/books/5196.html Thanks for your support! Edwin (Source: edwinleap.com) edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952864 Sat, 18 Jun 2011 17:18:09 +0100 4952864 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4952855&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FlsVr9tmLC6U%2F LITFL's first 'Postcard from the Edge', a series highlighting the emerging field of International Emergency Medicine, features Australian IEM trailblazer Associate Professor Chris Curry. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4952855 Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:26:44 +0100 4952855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934007&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2FGYDEjpsndMU%2Fct-scan-doctor-needed.html by John Schumann, MDHow and when do new medical technologies become the standard of care?A recent study showed that the use of CT scans in hospital emergency departments rose sixteen percent between 1995 and 2007.Looks a bit like a medieval torture doughnut.The only thing that surprises me about this is that it’s not more.Way more.(...)Read the rest of Before getting a CT scan, ask your doctor if its really neededCategory: Conditions | Tags: Emergency, Patients | 2 comments (Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog) Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934007 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 19:00:12 +0100 4934007 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934409&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FCbqi-F3AL34%2Fchristie-medical-announces-veinviewer-vision-omnimount.html Christie Medical Innovations has announced its new VeinViewer Vision OmniMount, which provides a smaller physical footprint and reduced cost for the company’s VeinViewer platform. The VeinViewer technology uses near-infrared light to produce an image of a patient’s veins, and then projects the image directly onto the skin to aid in IV placement. From the press release: The form factor of OmniMount is further reduced compared to the high-mobility cart model of VeinViewer Vision, but it features the same clinically proven vein-viewing capabilities. With OmniMount, customers have the key option of using the semi-permanent mount to position the device on a wall or table. The reduced size and mounting feature will prove to be especially useful in smaller treatment settings such as clinics, ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934409 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:20:36 +0100 4934409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934171&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FVKOk8s-E5yQ%2F Having a look on the web to review some fundamental chemistry I saw a couple of demonstrations of audiovisual knowledge sharing, though not sure how many of these ideas we can realistically incorporate into emergency medicine and critical care learning! (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934171 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 07:52:04 +0100 4934171 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934169&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fthe-case-of-the-crazy-rabid-squirrel-whitecoats-call-room.html Read the rest, and wonder. Others practice risk-avoidance to the ED, and then we wonder why our patients are unhappy and give us poor scores. Man and squirrel fight it out in man’s driveway. Squirrel scratches him twice, man runs inside grabs BB gun and plugs squirrel ala Elmer J Fudd. Man then calls health department for advice about what to do. Health department tells him to go to ED for rabies shots. via The Case of the Crazy Rabid Squirrel | WhiteCoat’s Call Room. Related posts:Dr. Perfect | WhiteCoat’s Call Room …Actually, statements like that do serve one purpose. They make... Destitute Companies Get Health Insurance Pass From Feds | WhiteCoat’s Call Room Why repeal the new health care law? Just get a... Joint Commission – Anti-Safety in Action | WhiteCo... GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934169 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 07:18:58 +0100 4934169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934173&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FCwetCV_vWps%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934173 Mon, 13 Jun 2011 01:25:31 +0100 4934173 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934174&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FwtkDNQWHJKA%2F I’ve always thought ‘GP proceduralist’ is a very understated term for people who should really be considered the ‘MacGyvers of medicine’. GP proceduralists in remote Australia are what most doctors were maybe eighty years ago — and what most of us dreamed of being when we went into medical school: having a baby? They’ll deliver [...] (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934174 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 00:00:45 +0100 4934174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4913676&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F06%2F10%2Ftext-message-toolkit%2F http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/psa/ The CDC has created a page of resources to use to provide messages about what people can do to protect themselves and their family during a natural disaster. Included is a new toolkit of prepared cell phone text messages that support state and local emergency managers http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/psa/textmessages.asp. Local and state agencies register their interest in using the toolkit by providing contact information to HHS, so they can receive alerts and updates as the content expands to include health tips for additional types of disasters. More than 400 agencies have registered so far. Agencies register by email: publichealthemergency@hhs.gov. [MRCLEADERS-L listserv] (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4913676 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:55:09 +0100 4913676 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921433&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FQRQSaDbuHok%2F Wow! This week's FFFF features some funtabulous findings that may at first feel frivolous, but --- fear not --- will help you figure out the furtive factors that are enfeebling your less-than-forthcoming ED frequenters... (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921433 Fri, 10 Jun 2011 10:34:19 +0100 4921433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921434&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FQQBNAcIPgo8%2F ACEM Fellowship examination questions for the SAQ, VAQ and SCE now updated (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921434 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 13:20:57 +0100 4921434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921435&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FjkJtnC7xuoA%2F LITFL reviews the June edition of Emergency Medicine Practice on Traumatic Hand Injuries. Are you ready for the Top 10 Review Questions? (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921435 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:29:16 +0100 4921435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4921432&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=34491&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgruntdoc.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fdr-perfect-whitecoats-call-room.html …Actually, statements like that do serve one purpose. They make it a pretty good bet that none of the doctors in our department will ever refer another patient to you or your your hospital… via Dr. Perfect | WhiteCoat’s Call Room. Sing it, brother. Related posts:Dang. Still not perfect. All Emergency Docs fear the “hey, remember that patient…” conversation... Joint Commission – Anti-Safety in Action | WhiteCoat’s Call Room “Severe pain can trigger suicide in hospital ERs” the headline... Destitute Companies Get Health Insurance Pass From Feds | WhiteCoat’s Call Room Why repeal the new health care law? Just get a... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin. (Source: GruntDoc) GruntDoc blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4921432 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 07:39:04 +0100 4921432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911606&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2F-RCfr_LN-c8%2Fmedegrip-given-go-ahead-in-europe.html MedeGrip, a simple foam device for working with small or breakable things in the clinic or on the floor, has received the European CE Mark of approval.  It was less than a month ago that MedeGrip was successfully registered with the FDA as a Class 1 device and Access Scientific included it as part of the POWERWAND Maximum Barrier Kit. Developed by a PICC line nurse, the device helps take away the pain of handling things like Luer Loks and pin knots, and makes it a bit safer to work with glass ampules. Here’s a short video demonstrating the MedeGrip: Product page: MedeGrip… Flashbacks: MedeGrip to Make Work With Central Lines, Ampules, Other Devices Easier and Safer; MedeGrip for Pain Free Fingers Gets FDA Registered (Source: Medgadget) Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911606 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 21:54:35 +0100 4911606 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911607&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FyaO1kZqzbqE%2Fphilips-new-budget-conscious-petct-with-time-of-flight-technology.html Philips has introduced its Astonish TF Time-of-Flight (TOF) technology into its new budget PET/CT scanner, the TruFlight Select, and will be making TOF a standard on the company’s entire PET line.  By using intelligent timing, Astonish TF pinpoints the location of events with greater precision, leading to what the company claims is an up to 30% greater contrast resolution compared with non-TOF equipped systems. From the announcement: TOF technology for positron emission tomography (PET) scanners is designed to enhance image quality by reducing image artifacts and providing higher sensitivity. The resulting images help clinicians better detect and locate lesions to increase diagnostic confidence and preserve healthy tissue during treatment. According to a recent study, TOF scans can ... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911607 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:55:06 +0100 4911607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911608&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FG7r1FUknrNc%2Faustralian-researchers-develop-color-changing-bandage.html Louise van der Werff, a Ph.D. student from Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, has created a bandage that changes color in response to changes in heat. Looking somewhat like a giant mood ring, the psychedelic bandage is made up of special thermochromatic fibers that can detect changes in temperature as small as half a degree Celsius. Since inflammation or problems with blood supply at the wound site can cause an increase in temperature that can lead to an infection, a quick and accurate diagnosis is necessary. The color-changing bandage holds many advantages over the most common method of using electronic instruments in that it requires no electricity, gives a near-instant measurements, and costs less. Moreover, as the thermochromatic fibers can change to a wide range of colors, ph... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911608 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 18:18:23 +0100 4911608 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911464&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FYbQmO1Im2Eg%2F By Tad DeHavenLast week, the House passed a $40.6 billion Homeland Security appropriations bill for fiscal 2012. The Constitutional Authority Statement for the bill cited Congress’s authority to appropriate money and the General Welfare Clause. Citing the General Welfare Clause might be appropriate for activities associated with the common defense of the nation. However, it is not an appropriate justification for something like the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which distributes federal taxpayer money to local fire departments. Firefighting is a purely local concern and should be funded by those who benefit from a local fire department’s services. Why in the world am I paying federal taxes in Pennsylvania to a bureaucracy in Washingto... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911464 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 12:40:45 +0100 4911464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911493&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FIJ5pagkDJTU%2F We recently featured a video on what could turn out to be the emergency medicine/ critical care 'Trial of the Year'... That's right, the FEAST Trial: (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911493 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:18 +0100 4911493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902509&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2Fpw7mTXLHXzE%2Fmasimo-e1-pulse-oximetry-ear-sensor-receives-fda-and-ce-approval.html Masimo has received both US FDA and European CE clearance for its E1 single-patient-use pulse oximetry ear sensor. The ear is often used as an alternative site to measure oxygenation in situations where measurement at the fingertip is impractical, such as when there is excessive patient movement or when perfusion is too low to obtain reliable results. While traditional fingerclip sensors are often applied to the earlobe, the E1 is attached more securely in the cavum conchae. It promises to give faster detection of oxygen saturation changes during low perfusion, and to avoid cross-contamination risks associated with reusable sensors. Masimo has started a limited market release of the device. Press release: Masimo Initiates Limited Market Release of E1, Single-Patient-Use Ear Sensor for Puls... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902509 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 13:00:43 +0100 4902509 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4911494&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FfAUV6GRDJcU%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4911494 Mon, 06 Jun 2011 01:48:35 +0100 4911494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902422&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fa-young-person-refuses-life-saving-treatment-is-that-ok%2F2011.06.05 Discussion: (more…) *This blog post was originally published at Movin' Meat* (Source: Better Health) Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902422 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 19:00:00 +0100 4902422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4895302&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F06%2F03%2Fwithout-english-in-emergency%2F http://bit.ly/kyZghm Communicating Without English in an Emergency: A webinar for government and community organizations. June 8, 3-4CT Registration is required: http://bit.ly/iDzftw Learn how to form effective working relationships with immigrant and refugee community leaders in your area, building the trust and connections that will elad to effective emergency communications. (Source: BHIC) BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4895302 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 23:47:25 +0100 4895302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893432&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=38113&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnews.consumerreports.org%2Fhealth%2F2011%2F06%2Frisk-of-death-with-crowded-emergency-rooms.html Overcrowding and long waits in emergency rooms lead to more patients dying or needing further hospital treatment, researchers have found. In an analysis of more than 14 million patients in Canada, researchers found that hospital shifts with longer average waiting times were linked to a higher risk of patients dying, or returning to the hospital for more treatment, in the following seven days. Cutting average waiting times by one hour would have saved more than 800 lives over the course of the study, the researchers estimated. Among the sickest patients, spending six hours or more in the ER was linked to a 79 percent higher chance of dying during the next seven days, compared with staying less than an hour. For less seriously ill patients, the risk of dying increased by 71 percent with a... Consumer Reports Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893432 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 15:15:00 +0100 4893432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893457&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FSen8YuWqphg%2F Some fun figures well worth engraving on the surface of your encephalon if you're an emergency or critical care doc in this week's FFFF. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893457 Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:23 +0100 4893457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893459&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2F4KSMp8AaGAU%2F A surprising FEAST: "Fluid boluses significantly increased 48-hour mortality in critically ill children with impaired perfusion in... resource-limited settings in Africa." (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893459 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 09:23:02 +0100 4893459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4893385&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=36224&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.wsjonline.com%2F%7Er%2Fwsj%2Fhealth%2Ffeed%2F%7E3%2F2p7f2HNbkQM%2F It would seem logical that giving people access to primary health-care services would help cut down on visits to the emergency room. But a new study suggests that when it comes to mental-health services for kids, that may not be the case. Researchers at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center looked at patient records for kids aged 3 to 17 who made visits to the hospital’s ER for mental-health issues. The majority of these visits were for relatively minor problems such as disruptive behavior at school, fighting with siblings or running away, Emily Frosch, lead author of the study and a pediatric psychiatrist at Hopkins Children’s, tells the Health Blog. Of 2,903 patients who initially visited the ER for mental-health reasons, 338 returned within six months. That, despite the fact... WSJ.com: Health Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4893385 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 20:49:23 +0100 4893385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4885697&cid=t_97762_10_f&fid=34467&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnnlm.gov%2Fbhic%2F2011%2F05%2F31%2Faraticles-of-note%2F Eye Health and Latino Farm Workers http://ht.ly/4MAim Article Abstract from the Journal of Agromedicine:  Farmworkers face a variety of risk factors for eye injuries. Measures of eye protection use and of eye safety knowledge and beliefs are based on a survey of 300 Latino farmworkers in North Carolina. Few farmworkers report using eye protection (8.3%); most (92.3%) report that employers do not provide eye protection. Approximately 70% report that they are not trained in preventing eye injuries; 81% believe that their chances of getting an eye injury are low. Many farmworkers choose to take risks in order to save time. Interventions are needed that target farmworker knowledge and beliefs about eye safety. [J Agromedicine. 2011 April; 16(2): 143–152.] doi: 10.1080/1059924X.2011.55477... BHIC blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4885697 Tue, 31 May 2011 22:12:28 +0100 4885697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883513&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2FV2cglIFanuw%2Fhappened-hospital-joplin-mo-tornado.html Dr. Kevin Kikta was one of two emergency physicians on duty at St. John’s Regional Medical Center in Joplin, MO on Sunday, May 22 when an EF-5 tornado struck the hospital.by Kevin J. Kikta, DOYou never know that it will be the most important day of your life until the day is over.  The day started like any other day for me: waking up, eating, going to the gym, showering, and going to my 4 pm ED shift. As I drove to the hospital, I mentally prepared for my shift as I always do, but nothing could ever have prepared me for what was going to happen on this shift.Things were normal for the first hour and half. At approximately 5:30 pm, we received a warning that a tornado had been spotted. Although I work in Joplin and went to medical school in Oklahoma, I live in New Jersey, and I have neve... Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883513 Tue, 31 May 2011 19:34:21 +0100 4883513 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883518&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2F7dt1YUYrJ74%2Fmedicine-greatest-save-save.html by Shantanu Nundy, MDIn the real world of medicine, “great saves” are rare. Most patients that you expect to die will die, and those who experience a cardiac arrest or code rarely survive. Mr. GR is the closest I’ve seen to an exception to both of these rules, and his story illustrates the best but also the worst of what our health care system achieves.I first met Mr. GR in the emergency room. As the cardiac ICU resident on call, I was urgently paged down to the E.R. for a “cath lab activation.”(...)Read the rest of In medicine, the greatest save is not having to make a save at allCategory: Physician | Tags: Emergency, Heart, Hospital | 2 comments (Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog) Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883518 Tue, 31 May 2011 15:00:46 +0100 4883518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4883580&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=38129&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Flifeinthefastlane%2FWZHV%2F%7E3%2FNmMlUs04hTY%2F The LITFL Review is your regular and reliable source for the highest highlights, sneakiest sneak peaks and loudest shout-outs from the webbed world of emergency medicine and critical care. (Source: Life in the Fast Lane) Life in the Fast Lane blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4883580 Mon, 30 May 2011 07:56:03 +0100 4883580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4876373&cid=t_97762_85_f&fid=34587&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FKevinMd-MedicalWeblog%2F%7E3%2Fx41UV4e79N4%2Fpas-nps-impact-emergency-room-care.html by a medical residentA recent survey in the American Journal of Bioethics, indicates that 80 percent of patients expect to see a physician when they come to the emergency department.Parents were more insistent about their child see a physician or resident for even a minor condition such as a sprained ankle.(...)Read the rest of How PAs and NPs impact emergency room careCategory: Physician | Tags: Emergency | 7 comments (Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog) Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4876373 Sat, 28 May 2011 19:00:52 +0100 4876373 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872193&cid=t_97762_113_f&fid=22291&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMedgadget%2F%7E3%2FU5wYhJSV5d8%2Fthe-oxylator-emergency-ventilation-with-no-wires.html The Oxylator from Primedic is a combination between a bag-valve mask and a portable ventilator.  Designed to be operated by either lay rescuers or EMS personnel, it is powered only by an oxygen cylinder, with no electricity required.  This device basically acts as a pressure-controlled ventilator, leaving EMS personnel with free hands to take care of other life-savings tasks. The Oxylator is affixed either to a facemask or a more invasive airway device such as an LMA or endotracheal tube, and with the touch of a button, it begins delivering a preset pressure in the range of 20-45 cm H2O.  In addition, there is an audio-visual alarm that alerts to increased pressures that can occur if more head-tilt/chin-lift is needed in the case of mask ventilation or if the tube slips into the right m... Medgadget blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872193 Fri, 27 May 2011 19:16:35 +0100 4872193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872107&cid=t_97762_88_f&fid=39185&url=http%3A%2F%2Fedwinleap.com%2Fblog%2F%3Fp%3D1631 How many times have you heard this on the radio: Base, this is Medic 3, and we’re 15 minutes from your facility with a 38-year-old white male with, uh, some chest pain, numbness all over, headache, and anxiety, as well as some bruises from a fall. He says his pain radiates from his earlobes to his nipples, and well, we’ll just give you more details on arrival, base. This is Medic 3 clear. God love those paramedics. The truth is, if we doctors were on the truck ourselves, we still wouldn’t know what the diagnosis was. Frequently, when I discharge people from the emergency department, I still don’t know the diagnosis. Thank heavens for medical screening exams because that’s about the best I can do some nights. But I have come to realize that if the medics can&#8... edwinleap.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872107 Fri, 27 May 2011 16:37:55 +0100 4872107 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4872091&cid=t_97762_87_f&fid=39187&url=http%3A%2F%2Fgetbetterhealth.com%2Fhow-to-avoid-dog-bites%2F2011.05.27 Last year I didn’t write about dog bite prevention until the first week of June even though I know National Dog Bite Prevention Week is always the third full of week of May. The numbers shared by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) haven’t changed:   4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year in the US with 800,000 of them requiring medical attention. If you have read this blog for very long, you know I dearly love my dogs — deceased ones (Columbo, Ladybug (photo), and Girlfriend) and the living one, Rusty.  Still, I have no illusions that dogs bite and given the right provocation, I think mine would though most of the time they are totally harmless and would just invite you in to rob me. Sadly, children are by far the most common victims of dog bites, occu... Better Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4872091 Fri, 27 May 2011 16:00:00 +0100 4872091