BACKGROUND:This study aims to develop and validate a machine learning-based in-hospital mortality predictive model for acute aortic syndrome(AAS)in the emergency department(ED)and to derive a simplifi ed version suita...BACKGROUND:This study aims to develop and validate a machine learning-based in-hospital mortality predictive model for acute aortic syndrome(AAS)in the emergency department(ED)and to derive a simplifi ed version suitable for rapid clinical application.METHODS:In this multi-center retrospective cohort study,AAS patient data from three hospitals were analyzed.The modeling cohort included data from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University and the People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region,with Peking University Third Hospital data serving as the external test set.Four machine learning algorithms—logistic regression(LR),multilayer perceptron(MLP),Gaussian naive Bayes(GNB),and random forest(RF)—were used to develop predictive models based on 34 early-accessible clinical variables.A simplifi ed model was then derived based on fi ve key variables(Stanford type,pericardial eff usion,asymmetric peripheral arterial pulsation,decreased bowel sounds,and dyspnea)via Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator(LASSO)regression to improve ED applicability.RESULTS:A total of 929 patients were included in the modeling cohort,and 210 were included in the external test set.Four machine learning models based on 34 clinical variables were developed,achieving internal and external validation AUCs of 0.85-0.90 and 0.73-0.85,respectively.The simplifi ed model incorporating fi ve key variables demonstrated internal and external validation AUCs of 0.71-0.86 and 0.75-0.78,respectively.Both models showed robust calibration and predictive stability across datasets.CONCLUSION:Both kinds of models were built based on machine learning tools,and proved to have certain prediction performance and extrapolation.展开更多
Objective:Early sepsis can be treated if recognised early,but progression to severe sepsis and septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome substantially increases mortality.The objectives of our study were to...Objective:Early sepsis can be treated if recognised early,but progression to severe sepsis and septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome substantially increases mortality.The objectives of our study were to assess morbidity and mortality of patients with sepsis and to compare the effectiveness of a simple bedside satisfiable Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment(qSOFA)score with National Early Warning Score(NEWS)in prognosticating sepsis.Methods:This prospective observational study was conducted among patients>18 years old presenting with sepsis at B.J.Medical College.The SOFA,qSOFA and NEWS scores were calculated.The effectiveness in predicting mortality was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.Results:A total of 200 patients were evaluated(56%male)with a mean age of 51.7 years.The mortality rate was 23%.Patients categorized under high risk according to SOFA score>8,qSOFA score of 2-3 and NEWS>7 had a mortality rate of 33.3%,27.5%and 28.4%,respectively.AUC for mortality prediction was 0.695 using SOFA score,0.665 using qSOFA and 0.725 using NEWS.At a cut off of 7.50,NEWS demonstrated a sensitivity of 97.8%with a specificity of 28.0%and outperformed both SOFA and qSOFA which yielded a sensitivity of 43.5%and 91.3%and a specificity of 77.9%and 27.9%,respectively.Conclusions:The NEWS score outperforms SOFA and qSOFA in predicting mortality among sepsis patients.However,qSOFA is more helpful in identifying high risk patients and performs better in intensive care setting.展开更多
BACKGROUND Appropriate care for individuals who attempt suicide and are admitted to the emergency department(ED)can prevent future suicidal behavior.It is vital to understand their sociodemographic characteristics and...BACKGROUND Appropriate care for individuals who attempt suicide and are admitted to the emergency department(ED)can prevent future suicidal behavior.It is vital to understand their sociodemographic characteristics and the effects of targeted psychological care.AIM To analyze sociodemographic characteristics of suicide attempters treated in the ED and evaluate the efficacy of psychological care.METHODS Data from 239 suicide attempters treated in the ED of the Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture(Hubei Province,China)between January 2021 and February 2025 were divided into 2:Control(n=108)and psychological care(n=131).The demographic characteristics and effects of the psychological care were analyzed.RESULTS The mean(±SD)age of the 239 patients[114 male(47.7%),125 female(52.3%)]was 26.25±9.3 years,of whom 122(45.2%)were single,117(48.9%)were married,and 106(44.4%)had secondary education.Thirty-eight(15.9%)patients had suicidal intent,with a mean of 1.26±0.59 suicide attempts each.Twenty-two(9.21%)patients had a family history of suicide,while 8(3.34%)had a family history of suicide attempt(s).Before intervention,mean Suicidal Intent Scale scores in the psychological nursing and control groups were 21.57±5.28 and 19.86±5.92,respectively(P>0.05).After 1 month of nursing intervention,the respective scores were 10.09±1.11 and 16.48±0.87(P<0.001);and the re-suicide rates were 11.45%(15/131)and 24.07%(26/108)(P<0.001).CONCLUSION Psychological care significantly reduces suicide risk;EDs should provide comprehensive mental health care.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Maxillofacial trauma represents a significant challenge in emergency medicine,requiring both diagnostic accuracy and prompt intervention while balancing immediate life-saving interventions with preservation...BACKGROUND:Maxillofacial trauma represents a significant challenge in emergency medicine,requiring both diagnostic accuracy and prompt intervention while balancing immediate life-saving interventions with preservation of function and aesthetics.The complex anatomy of this region,with its proximity to critical structures,demands a thorough understanding of assessment and management principles.This narrative review aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for emergency physicians managing maxillofacial trauma,with particular emphasis on early recognition of critical injuries,airway management strategies,and special population considerations.METHODS:A narrative review was conducted via a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed and Scopus databases,which focused on maxillofacial trauma management in emergency settings.Articles were selected based on relevance to clinical practice,methodological quality,and current management guidelines.The review synthesized evidence from multiple study types,including original research,systematic reviews,and clinical practice guidelines,to provide practical guidance for emergency physicians.RESULTS:Initial assessment following Advanced Trauma Life Support(ATLS)principles is crucial,with airway management being a primary concern due to the risk of dynamic obstruction.Critical time-sensitive emergencies include orbital compartment syndrome,trapdoor fractures(in pediatric patients),and facial nerve injuries.Computed tomography(CT)imaging remains the gold standard for diagnosis.Special considerations are required for pediatric patients,who present unique anatomical challenges and injury patterns,and for elderly patients,who often have complex medical comorbidities and increased complication risks.Management strategies range from conservative treatment to urgent surgical intervention,with decisions based on the injury pattern and associated complications.CONCLUSION:Emergency physicians must maintain a structured yet fl exible approach to maxillofacial trauma,focusing on early recognition of critical injuries,appropriate airway management,and timely specialist consultation.Understanding injury patterns and their potential complications allows for eff ective risk stratifi cation and treatment planning,ultimately improving patient outcomes.展开更多
Objective:To compare the therapeutic efficacy of intravenous pantoprazole and famotidine for the treatment of epigastric pain in patients presenting to the emergency department.Methods:In this triple-blind randomized ...Objective:To compare the therapeutic efficacy of intravenous pantoprazole and famotidine for the treatment of epigastric pain in patients presenting to the emergency department.Methods:In this triple-blind randomized clinical trial,eligible patients presenting with epigastric pain were randomly assigned to receive intravenous pantoprazole or famotidine.Block randomization was used,and patients,treating physicians,and outcome assessors were blinded to treatment allocation.Pain intensity was assessed at baseline and at 30 and 60 minutes after drug administration.Results:Eighty patients were enrolled,with a mean age of 36.6 years(SD,15.0),and 42.5%were male.Mean pain scores decreased significantly over time in both treatment groups.In the pantoprazole group,pain scores declined from 8.02±1.28 at baseline to 4.75±1.31 at 30 minutes and 1.62±1.29 at 60 minutes,whereas in the famotidine group scores decreased from 8.12±1.48 to 5.37±1.23 and 2.35±1.54,respectively.There was no significant difference in baseline pain scores between groups(P=.92).Pantoprazole resulted in greater pain reduction compared with famotidine at both 30 minutes(P=.04)and 60 minutes(P=.05).Conclusions:Both medications were effective in relieving epigastric pain;however,pantoprazole provided greater and more sustained pain reduction,supporting its preferential use in emergency settings.展开更多
Phencyclidine(PCP,known as angel dust) is a nonbarbiturate,non-narcotic intravenous(IV) anesthetic with potent analgesic effects.However,its medical use was discontinued because of postoperative agitation,disorientati...Phencyclidine(PCP,known as angel dust) is a nonbarbiturate,non-narcotic intravenous(IV) anesthetic with potent analgesic effects.However,its medical use was discontinued because of postoperative agitation,disorientation,psychosis,cardiotoxicity,and hallucinogenic effects.Consequently,the PCP began to be illicitly distributed.The use methods include snorting,inhalation,IV,and subcutaneous(SC) injection.[1-5] The characteristic toxidrome of PCP includes altered mental status,tachycardia,and nystagmus.At higher doses,patients may become comatose and develop sympathomimetic effects such as tachycardia,hypertension,hypersalivation,urinary retention,and bronchospasm.In cases of intoxication,the pupillary light reflex remains intact,although the pupil size may vary.[1,3-6] PCP has a direct cardiotoxic effect and may induce arrhythmias.[2] Hyperreflexia,muscle rigidity,choreiform movements and muscle fasciculations may occur.[2,4,6] PCP-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS) and alveolar hemorrhage(AH) are rare but potentially life-threatening complications.The main causes of non-traumatic death in patients with PCP intoxication include cardiopulmonary arrest,intracranial hemorrhage and rhabdomyolysis.[2,3,5] This case report aims to emphasize the management and potential benefits of inhaled N-acetylcysteine(NAC) and tranexamic acid(TXA)for PCP-induced ARDS and AH.展开更多
VEXAS(vacuoles,E1 enzyme,X-linked,autoinflammatory,somatic)syndrome is a severe and progressive disease,characterized by clinical features that bridge rheumatologic and hematologic conditions.[1]VEXAS syndrome is a ra...VEXAS(vacuoles,E1 enzyme,X-linked,autoinflammatory,somatic)syndrome is a severe and progressive disease,characterized by clinical features that bridge rheumatologic and hematologic conditions.[1]VEXAS syndrome is a rare condition that was not reported until 2020.[2]Since then,interest among dermatologists,hematologists,and rheumatologists with published works has increased,[3]but none of them reported in the emergency setting,nor have any cases arisen following COVID-19 infection.展开更多
Propofol(2,6-di-isopropylphenol) is a short-acting,intravenous sedative drug.^([1,2]) The pharmacologic mechanism of propofol is related to its agonistic effects on the gamma-amino butyric acid receptor.^([1-3]) Propo...Propofol(2,6-di-isopropylphenol) is a short-acting,intravenous sedative drug.^([1,2]) The pharmacologic mechanism of propofol is related to its agonistic effects on the gamma-amino butyric acid receptor.^([1-3]) Propofol injection pain(PIP) is well-known in the operating room and is commonly countered by the prophylactic administration of lidocaine.In anesthesia,PIP is encountered in 28%–90% of patients.^([4,5]) However,PIPprophylaxis does not seem to be efficacious in every population.^([6,7]) Whether procedural sedation and analgesia(PSA) in the emergency department(ED) warrants lidocaine administration is unclear.展开更多
BACKGROUND:Rapid and accurate identification of high-risk patients in the emergency departments(EDs)is crucial for optimizing resource allocation and improving patient outcomes.This study aimed to develop an early pre...BACKGROUND:Rapid and accurate identification of high-risk patients in the emergency departments(EDs)is crucial for optimizing resource allocation and improving patient outcomes.This study aimed to develop an early prediction model for identifying high-risk patients in EDs using initial vital sign measurements.METHODS:This retrospective cohort study analyzed initial vital signs from the Chinese Emergency Triage,Assessment,and Treatment(CETAT)database,which was collected between January 1^(st),2020,and June 25^(th),2023.The primary outcome was the identification of high-risk patients needing immediate treatment.Various machine learning methods,including a deep-learningbased multilayer perceptron(MLP)classifier were evaluated.Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC-ROC).AUC-ROC values were reported for three scenarios:a default case,a scenario requiring sensitivity greater than 0.8(Scenario I),and a scenario requiring specificity greater than 0.8(Scenario II).SHAP values were calculated to determine the importance of each predictor within the MLP model.RESULTS:A total of 38,797 patients were analyzed,of whom 18.2%were identified as high-risk.Comparative analysis of the predictive models for high-risk patients showed AUC-ROC values ranging from 0.717 to 0.738,with the MLP model outperforming logistic regression(LR),Gaussian Naive Bayes(GNB),and the National Early Warning Score(NEWS).SHAP value analysis identified coma state,peripheral capillary oxygen saturation(SpO_(2)),and systolic blood pressure as the top three predictive factors in the MLP model,with coma state exerting the most contribution.CONCLUSION:Compared with other methods,the MLP model with initial vital signs demonstrated optimal prediction accuracy,highlighting its potential to enhance clinical decision-making in triage in the EDs.展开更多
BACKGROUND:The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of neutrophil CD64(nCD64)as a novel biomarker in sepsis patients.METHODS:One hundred fifty-one adult patients diagnosed with sepsi...BACKGROUND:The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of neutrophil CD64(nCD64)as a novel biomarker in sepsis patients.METHODS:One hundred fifty-one adult patients diagnosed with sepsis and 20 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study.Patients with sepsis were further subdivided into a sepsis group and a septic shock group.nCD64 expression,serum procalcitonin(PCT)level,C-reactive protein(CRP)level,and white blood cell(WBC)count were obtained for each patient,and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment(SOFA)scores were calculated.RESULTS:nCD64 expression was higher in the sepsis group with confirmed infection than in the control group.The receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve of nCD64 was higher than those of SOFA score,PCT,CRP and WBC for diagnosing infection.The area under the curve(AUC)of nCD64 combined with SOFA score was the highest for all parameters.The AUC of nCD64 for predicting 28-day mortality in sepsis was signifi cantly higher than those of PCT,CRP,and WBC,but slightly lower than that of SOFA score.The AUC of nCD64 or PCT combined with SOFA score was signifi cantly higher than that of any single parameter for predicting 28-day mortality.CONCLUSION:nCD64 expression and SOFA score are valuable parameters for early diagnosis of infection and prognostic evaluation of sepsis patients.展开更多
BACKGROUND:The study aimed to evaluate the predictive role of interleukin-6(IL-6)and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)assessment test(CAT)score in mechanical ventilation(MV)in COPD patients at the acute exac...BACKGROUND:The study aimed to evaluate the predictive role of interleukin-6(IL-6)and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)assessment test(CAT)score in mechanical ventilation(MV)in COPD patients at the acute exacerbation stage in the emergency department(ED).METHODS:For a one-year period,among adult patients in the ED who met the criteria of acute exacerbation of COPD,158 who received MV within 48 hours after admission were compared to 294 who didn't require MV within the same period after admission.IL-6 level and CAT score were compared between the two groups.The predicted value of IL-6 and CAT score was assessed by logistic regression analysis and a receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.RESULTS:The IL-6 and CAT scores in the 158 MV patients were much higher than those without.IL-6 and CAT scores were independent predictors of MV within 48 hours using logistic regression analysis(IL-6:odds ratio[OR]1.053,95%confidence interval[CI]1.039–1.067,P<0.001;CAT score:OR 1.122,95%CI 1.086–1.159,P<0.001).The combination of IL-6 and CAT scores(area under ROC curve[AUC]0.826,95%CI 0.786–0.866,P<0.001)improved the accuracy of predicting MV within 48 hours when compared with IL-6(AUC 0.752,95%CI 0.703–0.800,P<0.001)and CAT scores alone(AUC 0.739,95%CI 0.692–0.786,P<0.001).The sensitivity and specificity were 69.6%,74.1%,75.32%and 63.6%,respectively.CONCLUSION:The combined of IL-6 and CAT scores is useful for evaluating the risk of COPD patients at acute exacerbation in ED,and can provide a predictive value for MV or not within 48 hours.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Administering oxygen therapy(OT) has an essential role in preventing/managing hypoxemia in both acute and chronic conditions. It should be adjusted to achieve the normal oxygen saturation of 94%–98% in mo...BACKGROUND: Administering oxygen therapy(OT) has an essential role in preventing/managing hypoxemia in both acute and chronic conditions. It should be adjusted to achieve the normal oxygen saturation of 94%–98% in most cases. This study aims to evaluate knowledge, attitude and practice(KAP) of nurses, paramedics, emergency medical technicians(EMTs) and Emergency Medical Services(EMS) physicians working at emergency departments(ED) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a structured questionnaire was used to assess KAP related to OT of nurses, paramedics, EMTs and EMS physicians currently working at an ED of a tertiary care hospital. Knowledge and attitude were assessed using a Likert scale from 1–5, whereas practice was assessed as a yes/no categorical variable.RESULTS: A total of 444 emergency health-care workers(EHCWs) participated, of which 225(50.7%) were male, with the majority(77%) in the age group of 20–35 years. Over half of the sample were nurses(266; 59.9%). The mean score for knowledge about OT was 5.51±1.45, attitude was 26.31±3.17 and for practices 4.55±1.76. The main factors which were associated with poor KAP were workload and lack of local guidelines. The distribution of overall practice score was signifi cantly better among paramedics – nurses group and EMT – nurses group.CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that there is a gap in EHCWs' KAP, particularly regarding when to provide OT to a patient. This gap can affect patients' safety. Extensive educational and training programs about OT are needed to raise awareness among health-care providers.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Emergency medical service system (EMSS) in China is becoming more important. However, studies on mortality of emergency departments (EDs) patients in tertiary hospitals and on the trends in mortality of ED...BACKGROUND: Emergency medical service system (EMSS) in China is becoming more important. However, studies on mortality of emergency departments (EDs) patients in tertiary hospitals and on the trends in mortality of ED patients all over China are stagnant. The objective of this study was to quantify and describe the trends in mortality of ED patients in China. METHODS: Nine tertiary teaching hospitals were selected from tertiary teaching hospitals in different regions. The annual numbers of ED visits and deaths of these hospitals in 2004, 2009 and 2014 were recorded and analyzed. Chi-square test was used to compare the mortality of the EDs’ visits. Moreover, data on the mortality of ED patients in China from 2005 to 2015 were summarized and analyzed from the China Health and Family Planning Statistical Yearbooks (2006–2016). RESULTS: From 2004 to 2014, the overall annual mortalities in EDs increased among the tertiary hospitals (P<0.001). However, the overall annual mortality in EDs all over China decreased from 0.12% in 2005 to 0.08% in 2015. And the mortalities of EDs patients in the eastern, central and western regions of China all decreased. In addition, the average mortality of EDs patients in northern China was obviously higher than that in southern China (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The ED mortality was increased in tertiary hospitals while decreased all over China during the past decade, which may be partly caused by some critical challenges faced by China’s EMSS, such as overcrowding and long length of stay in EDs of tertiary hospitals.展开更多
Dear editor,Inguinal hernias affect 5%of children and are usually defined as a protrusion of intestine or omentum through abdominal wall or inguinal canal defects.^([1])Inguinal hernias may contain structures other th...Dear editor,Inguinal hernias affect 5%of children and are usually defined as a protrusion of intestine or omentum through abdominal wall or inguinal canal defects.^([1])Inguinal hernias may contain structures other than bowel and unique cases have been documented since the展开更多
Objective A new technique of transthoracic lung ultrasonography(TLS) has emerged and demonstrated promising results in acute heart failure diagnosis at an early stage. However, the diagnostic value of ultrasound lung ...Objective A new technique of transthoracic lung ultrasonography(TLS) has emerged and demonstrated promising results in acute heart failure diagnosis at an early stage. However, the diagnostic value of ultrasound lung comets(ULCs) for acute heart failure(AHF) performed in busy emergency department(ED) is uncertain. The present meta-analysis aimed to assess the diagnostic efficiency of ULCs in AHF. Methods We conducted a search on online journal databases to collect the data on TLS performed for diagnosing AHF published up to the end of July 2017. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio(PLR), negative likelihood ratio(NLR), and summary receiver operating characteristic(SROC) curve were calculated. The post-test probability of AHF was calculated by using Bayes analysis. Results We enrolled a total of 15 studies involving 3,309 patients. The value of sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, area under the SROC curve, and Q* index was 85%, 91%, 8.94, 0.14, 67.24, 0.9587, and 0.9026, respectively. We detected significant heterogeneity among included studies, and therefore, all these results were analyzed under the random-effect model. We also explored possible sources of heterogeneity among the studies by using meta-regression analysis. Results suggest that the time interval between patient’s admission to bedside TLS examination was closely related to TLS accuracy. Conclusion This meta-analysis demonstrated that detecting ULCs is a convenient bedside tool and has high accuracy for early AHF diagnosis in ED. TLS could be recommended to be applied for early diagnosis of AHF in ED.展开更多
BACKGROUND:We aimed to evaluate the utility of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)in the assessment of hand infections that present to the emergency department(ED)and its impact on medical decision making and patient mana...BACKGROUND:We aimed to evaluate the utility of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)in the assessment of hand infections that present to the emergency department(ED)and its impact on medical decision making and patient management.METHODS:We conducted a retrospective review of patients who presented to two urban academic EDs with clinical presentations concerning for skin and soft tissue infections(SSTI)of the hand between December 2015 and December 2021.Two trained POCUS fellowship physicians reviewed an ED POCUS database for POCUS examinations of the hand.We then reviewed patients’electronic health records(EHR)for demographic characteristics,history,physical examination findings,ED course,additional imaging studies,consultations,impact of POCUS on patient care and final disposition.RESULTS:We included a total of 50 cases(28 male,22 female)in the final analysis.The most common presenting symptoms and exam findings were pain(100%),swelling(90%),and erythema(74%).The most common sonographic findings were edema(76%),soft tissue swelling(78%),and fluid surrounding the tendon(57%).POCUS was used in medical decision making 68%of the time(n=34),with the use of POCUS leading to changes in management 38%of the time(n=19).POCUS use led to early antibiotic use(11/19),early consultation(10/19),and led to the performance of a required procedure(8/19).The POCUS diagnosis was consistent with the discharge diagnosis of flexor tenosynovitis 8/12 times,abscess 12/16 times,and cellulitis 14/20 times.CONCLUSION:POCUS is beneficial for evaluating of hand infections that present to the ED and can be used as an important part of medical decision making to expedite patient care.展开更多
BACKGROUND: To evaluate the utilization of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS) for the assessment of emergency department(ED) patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and the impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on medical decis...BACKGROUND: To evaluate the utilization of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS) for the assessment of emergency department(ED) patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and the impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on medical decision-making and patient management in the ED.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of ED patients presenting with musculoskeletal symptoms who received a POCUS over a 3.5-year period. An ED POCUS database was reviewed for musculoskeletal POCUS examinations used for medical decision-making. Electronic medical records were then reviewed for demographic characteristics, history, physical examination findings, ED course, additional imaging studies, and impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on patient management in ED. RESULTS: A total of 264 subjects(92 females, 172 males) and 292 musculoskeletal POCUS examinations were included in the fi nal analysis. Most common symptomatic sites were knee(31.8%) and ankle(16.3%). Joint effusion was the most common fi nding on musculoskeletal POCUS, noted in 33.7% of the patients, and subcutaneous edema/cobblestoning was found in 10.2% of the patients. Muscle or tendon rupture was found in 2.3% of the patients, and 1.9% of the patients had joint dislocation. Bursitis or bursa fluid was found in 3.4% of patients, and tendonitis/tendinopathy was found in 2.3%. Twenty percent of them were ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedures, and most of them(73.3%) were arthrocentesis. Of the included studies, all except three either changed or helped guide patient management as documented in the patients' medical records.CONCLUSION: Our study fi ndings illustrate the utility of POCUS in the evaluation of a variety of musculoskeletal pathologies in the ED.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Harmless acute pancreatitis score(HAPS), neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and red blood cell distribution width(RDW) are used to determine the early prognosis of patients diagnosed with nontraumatic acute panc...BACKGROUND: Harmless acute pancreatitis score(HAPS), neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and red blood cell distribution width(RDW) are used to determine the early prognosis of patients diagnosed with nontraumatic acute pancreatitis in the emergency department(ED).METHODS: Patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis(K 85.9) in the ED according to the ICD10 coding during one year were included in the study. Patients with chronic pancreatitis and those who had missing data in their files were excluded from the study. Patients who did not have computed tomography(CT) in the ED were not included in the study.RESULTS: Ultimately, 322 patients were included in the study. The median age of the patients was 53.1(IQR=36–64). Of the patients, 68.1%(n=226) had etiological causes of the biliary tract. The mortality rate of these patients within the first 48 hours was 4.3%(n=14). In the logistic regression analysis performed by using Balthazar classification, HAPS score, RDW, neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio, age, diabetes mellitus and systolic blood pressure, the only independent variable in determining mortality was assigned as Balthazar classification(OR: 15; 95% CI: 3.5 to 64.4).CONCLUSIONS: HAPS, neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and RDW were not effective in determining the mortality of nontraumatic acute pancreatitis cases within the first 48 hours. The only independent variable for determining the mortality was Balthazar classifi cation.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Emergency physicians frequently encounter patients with acute small bowel obstructions (SBO). Although computed tomography (CT) imaging is the current gold standard in the assessment of patients with ...BACKGROUND: Emergency physicians frequently encounter patients with acute small bowel obstructions (SBO). Although computed tomography (CT) imaging is the current gold standard in the assessment of patients with suspected SBO in the emergency department, a few studies have examined the use of ultrasound as an alternative imaging technique. METHODS: We evaluated the accuracy of ultrasound performed in the ED by a variety of providers (physicians with various levels of training, physician assistants) compared to CT imaging in 47 patients with suspected SBOs. RESULTS: Our data demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 93.3% when compared to abdominal CT, and a sensitivity of 94.3% and specificity of 95.2% using a composite endpoint of abdominal CT and discharge diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound can play an important role in the identification of small bowe obstructions in ED patients.展开更多
Objective It is difficult to predict fulminant myocarditis at an early stage in the emergency department.The objective of this study was to construct and validate a simple prediction model for the early identification...Objective It is difficult to predict fulminant myocarditis at an early stage in the emergency department.The objective of this study was to construct and validate a simple prediction model for the early identification of fulminant myocarditis.Methods A total of 61 patients with fulminant myocarditis and 160 patients with acute myocarditis were enrolled in the training and internal validation cohorts.LASSO regression and multivariate logistic regression were selected to develop the prediction model.The selection of the model was based on overall performance and simplicity.A nomogram based on the optimal model was built,and its clinical usefulness was evaluated by decision curve analysis.The predictive model was further validated in an external validation group.Results The resulting prediction model was based on 4 factors:systolic blood pressure,troponin I,left ventricular ejection fraction,and ventricular wall motion abnormality.The Brier scores of the final model were 0.078 in the training data set and 0.061 in the internal testing data set,respectively.The C-indexes of the training data set and the testing data set were 0.952 and 0.968,respectively.Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram model developed based on the 4 predictors above had a positive net benefit for predicting probability thresholds.In the external validation cohort,the model also showed good performance(Brier score=0.007,and C-index=0.989).Conclusion We developed and validated an early prediction model consisting of 4 clinical factors(systolic blood pressure,troponin I,left ventricular ejection fraction,and ventricular wall motion abnormality)to identify potential fulminant myocarditis patients in the emergency department.展开更多
基金supported by the special fund of the National Clinical Key Specialty Construction Program[(2022)301-2305].
文摘BACKGROUND:This study aims to develop and validate a machine learning-based in-hospital mortality predictive model for acute aortic syndrome(AAS)in the emergency department(ED)and to derive a simplifi ed version suitable for rapid clinical application.METHODS:In this multi-center retrospective cohort study,AAS patient data from three hospitals were analyzed.The modeling cohort included data from the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University and the People’s Hospital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region,with Peking University Third Hospital data serving as the external test set.Four machine learning algorithms—logistic regression(LR),multilayer perceptron(MLP),Gaussian naive Bayes(GNB),and random forest(RF)—were used to develop predictive models based on 34 early-accessible clinical variables.A simplifi ed model was then derived based on fi ve key variables(Stanford type,pericardial eff usion,asymmetric peripheral arterial pulsation,decreased bowel sounds,and dyspnea)via Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator(LASSO)regression to improve ED applicability.RESULTS:A total of 929 patients were included in the modeling cohort,and 210 were included in the external test set.Four machine learning models based on 34 clinical variables were developed,achieving internal and external validation AUCs of 0.85-0.90 and 0.73-0.85,respectively.The simplifi ed model incorporating fi ve key variables demonstrated internal and external validation AUCs of 0.71-0.86 and 0.75-0.78,respectively.Both models showed robust calibration and predictive stability across datasets.CONCLUSION:Both kinds of models were built based on machine learning tools,and proved to have certain prediction performance and extrapolation.
文摘Objective:Early sepsis can be treated if recognised early,but progression to severe sepsis and septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome substantially increases mortality.The objectives of our study were to assess morbidity and mortality of patients with sepsis and to compare the effectiveness of a simple bedside satisfiable Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment(qSOFA)score with National Early Warning Score(NEWS)in prognosticating sepsis.Methods:This prospective observational study was conducted among patients>18 years old presenting with sepsis at B.J.Medical College.The SOFA,qSOFA and NEWS scores were calculated.The effectiveness in predicting mortality was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.Results:A total of 200 patients were evaluated(56%male)with a mean age of 51.7 years.The mortality rate was 23%.Patients categorized under high risk according to SOFA score>8,qSOFA score of 2-3 and NEWS>7 had a mortality rate of 33.3%,27.5%and 28.4%,respectively.AUC for mortality prediction was 0.695 using SOFA score,0.665 using qSOFA and 0.725 using NEWS.At a cut off of 7.50,NEWS demonstrated a sensitivity of 97.8%with a specificity of 28.0%and outperformed both SOFA and qSOFA which yielded a sensitivity of 43.5%and 91.3%and a specificity of 77.9%and 27.9%,respectively.Conclusions:The NEWS score outperforms SOFA and qSOFA in predicting mortality among sepsis patients.However,qSOFA is more helpful in identifying high risk patients and performs better in intensive care setting.
文摘BACKGROUND Appropriate care for individuals who attempt suicide and are admitted to the emergency department(ED)can prevent future suicidal behavior.It is vital to understand their sociodemographic characteristics and the effects of targeted psychological care.AIM To analyze sociodemographic characteristics of suicide attempters treated in the ED and evaluate the efficacy of psychological care.METHODS Data from 239 suicide attempters treated in the ED of the Central Hospital of Enshi Tujia and Miao Autonomous Prefecture(Hubei Province,China)between January 2021 and February 2025 were divided into 2:Control(n=108)and psychological care(n=131).The demographic characteristics and effects of the psychological care were analyzed.RESULTS The mean(±SD)age of the 239 patients[114 male(47.7%),125 female(52.3%)]was 26.25±9.3 years,of whom 122(45.2%)were single,117(48.9%)were married,and 106(44.4%)had secondary education.Thirty-eight(15.9%)patients had suicidal intent,with a mean of 1.26±0.59 suicide attempts each.Twenty-two(9.21%)patients had a family history of suicide,while 8(3.34%)had a family history of suicide attempt(s).Before intervention,mean Suicidal Intent Scale scores in the psychological nursing and control groups were 21.57±5.28 and 19.86±5.92,respectively(P>0.05).After 1 month of nursing intervention,the respective scores were 10.09±1.11 and 16.48±0.87(P<0.001);and the re-suicide rates were 11.45%(15/131)and 24.07%(26/108)(P<0.001).CONCLUSION Psychological care significantly reduces suicide risk;EDs should provide comprehensive mental health care.
文摘BACKGROUND:Maxillofacial trauma represents a significant challenge in emergency medicine,requiring both diagnostic accuracy and prompt intervention while balancing immediate life-saving interventions with preservation of function and aesthetics.The complex anatomy of this region,with its proximity to critical structures,demands a thorough understanding of assessment and management principles.This narrative review aims to provide evidence-based guidelines for emergency physicians managing maxillofacial trauma,with particular emphasis on early recognition of critical injuries,airway management strategies,and special population considerations.METHODS:A narrative review was conducted via a comprehensive literature search of the PubMed and Scopus databases,which focused on maxillofacial trauma management in emergency settings.Articles were selected based on relevance to clinical practice,methodological quality,and current management guidelines.The review synthesized evidence from multiple study types,including original research,systematic reviews,and clinical practice guidelines,to provide practical guidance for emergency physicians.RESULTS:Initial assessment following Advanced Trauma Life Support(ATLS)principles is crucial,with airway management being a primary concern due to the risk of dynamic obstruction.Critical time-sensitive emergencies include orbital compartment syndrome,trapdoor fractures(in pediatric patients),and facial nerve injuries.Computed tomography(CT)imaging remains the gold standard for diagnosis.Special considerations are required for pediatric patients,who present unique anatomical challenges and injury patterns,and for elderly patients,who often have complex medical comorbidities and increased complication risks.Management strategies range from conservative treatment to urgent surgical intervention,with decisions based on the injury pattern and associated complications.CONCLUSION:Emergency physicians must maintain a structured yet fl exible approach to maxillofacial trauma,focusing on early recognition of critical injuries,appropriate airway management,and timely specialist consultation.Understanding injury patterns and their potential complications allows for eff ective risk stratifi cation and treatment planning,ultimately improving patient outcomes.
文摘Objective:To compare the therapeutic efficacy of intravenous pantoprazole and famotidine for the treatment of epigastric pain in patients presenting to the emergency department.Methods:In this triple-blind randomized clinical trial,eligible patients presenting with epigastric pain were randomly assigned to receive intravenous pantoprazole or famotidine.Block randomization was used,and patients,treating physicians,and outcome assessors were blinded to treatment allocation.Pain intensity was assessed at baseline and at 30 and 60 minutes after drug administration.Results:Eighty patients were enrolled,with a mean age of 36.6 years(SD,15.0),and 42.5%were male.Mean pain scores decreased significantly over time in both treatment groups.In the pantoprazole group,pain scores declined from 8.02±1.28 at baseline to 4.75±1.31 at 30 minutes and 1.62±1.29 at 60 minutes,whereas in the famotidine group scores decreased from 8.12±1.48 to 5.37±1.23 and 2.35±1.54,respectively.There was no significant difference in baseline pain scores between groups(P=.92).Pantoprazole resulted in greater pain reduction compared with famotidine at both 30 minutes(P=.04)and 60 minutes(P=.05).Conclusions:Both medications were effective in relieving epigastric pain;however,pantoprazole provided greater and more sustained pain reduction,supporting its preferential use in emergency settings.
文摘Phencyclidine(PCP,known as angel dust) is a nonbarbiturate,non-narcotic intravenous(IV) anesthetic with potent analgesic effects.However,its medical use was discontinued because of postoperative agitation,disorientation,psychosis,cardiotoxicity,and hallucinogenic effects.Consequently,the PCP began to be illicitly distributed.The use methods include snorting,inhalation,IV,and subcutaneous(SC) injection.[1-5] The characteristic toxidrome of PCP includes altered mental status,tachycardia,and nystagmus.At higher doses,patients may become comatose and develop sympathomimetic effects such as tachycardia,hypertension,hypersalivation,urinary retention,and bronchospasm.In cases of intoxication,the pupillary light reflex remains intact,although the pupil size may vary.[1,3-6] PCP has a direct cardiotoxic effect and may induce arrhythmias.[2] Hyperreflexia,muscle rigidity,choreiform movements and muscle fasciculations may occur.[2,4,6] PCP-induced acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS) and alveolar hemorrhage(AH) are rare but potentially life-threatening complications.The main causes of non-traumatic death in patients with PCP intoxication include cardiopulmonary arrest,intracranial hemorrhage and rhabdomyolysis.[2,3,5] This case report aims to emphasize the management and potential benefits of inhaled N-acetylcysteine(NAC) and tranexamic acid(TXA)for PCP-induced ARDS and AH.
基金National High Level Hospital Clinical Research Funding(Scientific Research Seed Fund of Peking University First Hospital).
文摘VEXAS(vacuoles,E1 enzyme,X-linked,autoinflammatory,somatic)syndrome is a severe and progressive disease,characterized by clinical features that bridge rheumatologic and hematologic conditions.[1]VEXAS syndrome is a rare condition that was not reported until 2020.[2]Since then,interest among dermatologists,hematologists,and rheumatologists with published works has increased,[3]but none of them reported in the emergency setting,nor have any cases arisen following COVID-19 infection.
文摘Propofol(2,6-di-isopropylphenol) is a short-acting,intravenous sedative drug.^([1,2]) The pharmacologic mechanism of propofol is related to its agonistic effects on the gamma-amino butyric acid receptor.^([1-3]) Propofol injection pain(PIP) is well-known in the operating room and is commonly countered by the prophylactic administration of lidocaine.In anesthesia,PIP is encountered in 28%–90% of patients.^([4,5]) However,PIPprophylaxis does not seem to be efficacious in every population.^([6,7]) Whether procedural sedation and analgesia(PSA) in the emergency department(ED) warrants lidocaine administration is unclear.
基金Applicable Funding Source University of Science and Technology of China(to YLL)National Natural Science Foundation of China(12126604)(to MPZ)+1 种基金R&D project of Pazhou Lab(Huangpu)(2023K0609)(to MPZ)Anhui Provincial Natural Science(grant number 2208085MH235)(to KJ)。
文摘BACKGROUND:Rapid and accurate identification of high-risk patients in the emergency departments(EDs)is crucial for optimizing resource allocation and improving patient outcomes.This study aimed to develop an early prediction model for identifying high-risk patients in EDs using initial vital sign measurements.METHODS:This retrospective cohort study analyzed initial vital signs from the Chinese Emergency Triage,Assessment,and Treatment(CETAT)database,which was collected between January 1^(st),2020,and June 25^(th),2023.The primary outcome was the identification of high-risk patients needing immediate treatment.Various machine learning methods,including a deep-learningbased multilayer perceptron(MLP)classifier were evaluated.Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve(AUC-ROC).AUC-ROC values were reported for three scenarios:a default case,a scenario requiring sensitivity greater than 0.8(Scenario I),and a scenario requiring specificity greater than 0.8(Scenario II).SHAP values were calculated to determine the importance of each predictor within the MLP model.RESULTS:A total of 38,797 patients were analyzed,of whom 18.2%were identified as high-risk.Comparative analysis of the predictive models for high-risk patients showed AUC-ROC values ranging from 0.717 to 0.738,with the MLP model outperforming logistic regression(LR),Gaussian Naive Bayes(GNB),and the National Early Warning Score(NEWS).SHAP value analysis identified coma state,peripheral capillary oxygen saturation(SpO_(2)),and systolic blood pressure as the top three predictive factors in the MLP model,with coma state exerting the most contribution.CONCLUSION:Compared with other methods,the MLP model with initial vital signs demonstrated optimal prediction accuracy,highlighting its potential to enhance clinical decision-making in triage in the EDs.
文摘BACKGROUND:The aim of this study is to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of neutrophil CD64(nCD64)as a novel biomarker in sepsis patients.METHODS:One hundred fifty-one adult patients diagnosed with sepsis and 20 age-matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study.Patients with sepsis were further subdivided into a sepsis group and a septic shock group.nCD64 expression,serum procalcitonin(PCT)level,C-reactive protein(CRP)level,and white blood cell(WBC)count were obtained for each patient,and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment(SOFA)scores were calculated.RESULTS:nCD64 expression was higher in the sepsis group with confirmed infection than in the control group.The receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve of nCD64 was higher than those of SOFA score,PCT,CRP and WBC for diagnosing infection.The area under the curve(AUC)of nCD64 combined with SOFA score was the highest for all parameters.The AUC of nCD64 for predicting 28-day mortality in sepsis was signifi cantly higher than those of PCT,CRP,and WBC,but slightly lower than that of SOFA score.The AUC of nCD64 or PCT combined with SOFA score was signifi cantly higher than that of any single parameter for predicting 28-day mortality.CONCLUSION:nCD64 expression and SOFA score are valuable parameters for early diagnosis of infection and prognostic evaluation of sepsis patients.
基金supported by grants from Dongzhimen Hospital Fund of Special Talent(2018RC01)Beijing University of Chinese Medicine Fund of Project(2019-JYB-XJSJJ-025)
文摘BACKGROUND:The study aimed to evaluate the predictive role of interleukin-6(IL-6)and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease(COPD)assessment test(CAT)score in mechanical ventilation(MV)in COPD patients at the acute exacerbation stage in the emergency department(ED).METHODS:For a one-year period,among adult patients in the ED who met the criteria of acute exacerbation of COPD,158 who received MV within 48 hours after admission were compared to 294 who didn't require MV within the same period after admission.IL-6 level and CAT score were compared between the two groups.The predicted value of IL-6 and CAT score was assessed by logistic regression analysis and a receiver operating characteristic(ROC)curve.RESULTS:The IL-6 and CAT scores in the 158 MV patients were much higher than those without.IL-6 and CAT scores were independent predictors of MV within 48 hours using logistic regression analysis(IL-6:odds ratio[OR]1.053,95%confidence interval[CI]1.039–1.067,P<0.001;CAT score:OR 1.122,95%CI 1.086–1.159,P<0.001).The combination of IL-6 and CAT scores(area under ROC curve[AUC]0.826,95%CI 0.786–0.866,P<0.001)improved the accuracy of predicting MV within 48 hours when compared with IL-6(AUC 0.752,95%CI 0.703–0.800,P<0.001)and CAT scores alone(AUC 0.739,95%CI 0.692–0.786,P<0.001).The sensitivity and specificity were 69.6%,74.1%,75.32%and 63.6%,respectively.CONCLUSION:The combined of IL-6 and CAT scores is useful for evaluating the risk of COPD patients at acute exacerbation in ED,and can provide a predictive value for MV or not within 48 hours.
文摘BACKGROUND: Administering oxygen therapy(OT) has an essential role in preventing/managing hypoxemia in both acute and chronic conditions. It should be adjusted to achieve the normal oxygen saturation of 94%–98% in most cases. This study aims to evaluate knowledge, attitude and practice(KAP) of nurses, paramedics, emergency medical technicians(EMTs) and Emergency Medical Services(EMS) physicians working at emergency departments(ED) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, a structured questionnaire was used to assess KAP related to OT of nurses, paramedics, EMTs and EMS physicians currently working at an ED of a tertiary care hospital. Knowledge and attitude were assessed using a Likert scale from 1–5, whereas practice was assessed as a yes/no categorical variable.RESULTS: A total of 444 emergency health-care workers(EHCWs) participated, of which 225(50.7%) were male, with the majority(77%) in the age group of 20–35 years. Over half of the sample were nurses(266; 59.9%). The mean score for knowledge about OT was 5.51±1.45, attitude was 26.31±3.17 and for practices 4.55±1.76. The main factors which were associated with poor KAP were workload and lack of local guidelines. The distribution of overall practice score was signifi cantly better among paramedics – nurses group and EMT – nurses group.CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that there is a gap in EHCWs' KAP, particularly regarding when to provide OT to a patient. This gap can affect patients' safety. Extensive educational and training programs about OT are needed to raise awareness among health-care providers.
基金supported by National Key R&D Program of China(2017YFC0908700,2017YFC0908703,2018FY100600)Taishan Scholar Climbing Program of Shandong Province(tspd20181220)+5 种基金Taishan Young Scholar Program of Shandong Province(tsqn20161065)Fundamental Research Funds of Shandong University(2014QLKY04)National Natural Science Foundation of China(81601717,81571934,81570401,81772036,81671952)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2016M602149)the Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(BS2014YY032)the Key R&D Program of Shandong Province(2017G006013,2016GSF201235,2016ZDJS07A14,2018GSF118003)
文摘BACKGROUND: Emergency medical service system (EMSS) in China is becoming more important. However, studies on mortality of emergency departments (EDs) patients in tertiary hospitals and on the trends in mortality of ED patients all over China are stagnant. The objective of this study was to quantify and describe the trends in mortality of ED patients in China. METHODS: Nine tertiary teaching hospitals were selected from tertiary teaching hospitals in different regions. The annual numbers of ED visits and deaths of these hospitals in 2004, 2009 and 2014 were recorded and analyzed. Chi-square test was used to compare the mortality of the EDs’ visits. Moreover, data on the mortality of ED patients in China from 2005 to 2015 were summarized and analyzed from the China Health and Family Planning Statistical Yearbooks (2006–2016). RESULTS: From 2004 to 2014, the overall annual mortalities in EDs increased among the tertiary hospitals (P<0.001). However, the overall annual mortality in EDs all over China decreased from 0.12% in 2005 to 0.08% in 2015. And the mortalities of EDs patients in the eastern, central and western regions of China all decreased. In addition, the average mortality of EDs patients in northern China was obviously higher than that in southern China (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: The ED mortality was increased in tertiary hospitals while decreased all over China during the past decade, which may be partly caused by some critical challenges faced by China’s EMSS, such as overcrowding and long length of stay in EDs of tertiary hospitals.
文摘Dear editor,Inguinal hernias affect 5%of children and are usually defined as a protrusion of intestine or omentum through abdominal wall or inguinal canal defects.^([1])Inguinal hernias may contain structures other than bowel and unique cases have been documented since the
基金supported by the capital characteristic clinic project of China [Z151100004015071]National Natural Science Foundation of China [51573211]ruiyi emergency medical research fund of China [R2017013]
文摘Objective A new technique of transthoracic lung ultrasonography(TLS) has emerged and demonstrated promising results in acute heart failure diagnosis at an early stage. However, the diagnostic value of ultrasound lung comets(ULCs) for acute heart failure(AHF) performed in busy emergency department(ED) is uncertain. The present meta-analysis aimed to assess the diagnostic efficiency of ULCs in AHF. Methods We conducted a search on online journal databases to collect the data on TLS performed for diagnosing AHF published up to the end of July 2017. The sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio(PLR), negative likelihood ratio(NLR), and summary receiver operating characteristic(SROC) curve were calculated. The post-test probability of AHF was calculated by using Bayes analysis. Results We enrolled a total of 15 studies involving 3,309 patients. The value of sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, area under the SROC curve, and Q* index was 85%, 91%, 8.94, 0.14, 67.24, 0.9587, and 0.9026, respectively. We detected significant heterogeneity among included studies, and therefore, all these results were analyzed under the random-effect model. We also explored possible sources of heterogeneity among the studies by using meta-regression analysis. Results suggest that the time interval between patient’s admission to bedside TLS examination was closely related to TLS accuracy. Conclusion This meta-analysis demonstrated that detecting ULCs is a convenient bedside tool and has high accuracy for early AHF diagnosis in ED. TLS could be recommended to be applied for early diagnosis of AHF in ED.
文摘BACKGROUND:We aimed to evaluate the utility of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS)in the assessment of hand infections that present to the emergency department(ED)and its impact on medical decision making and patient management.METHODS:We conducted a retrospective review of patients who presented to two urban academic EDs with clinical presentations concerning for skin and soft tissue infections(SSTI)of the hand between December 2015 and December 2021.Two trained POCUS fellowship physicians reviewed an ED POCUS database for POCUS examinations of the hand.We then reviewed patients’electronic health records(EHR)for demographic characteristics,history,physical examination findings,ED course,additional imaging studies,consultations,impact of POCUS on patient care and final disposition.RESULTS:We included a total of 50 cases(28 male,22 female)in the final analysis.The most common presenting symptoms and exam findings were pain(100%),swelling(90%),and erythema(74%).The most common sonographic findings were edema(76%),soft tissue swelling(78%),and fluid surrounding the tendon(57%).POCUS was used in medical decision making 68%of the time(n=34),with the use of POCUS leading to changes in management 38%of the time(n=19).POCUS use led to early antibiotic use(11/19),early consultation(10/19),and led to the performance of a required procedure(8/19).The POCUS diagnosis was consistent with the discharge diagnosis of flexor tenosynovitis 8/12 times,abscess 12/16 times,and cellulitis 14/20 times.CONCLUSION:POCUS is beneficial for evaluating of hand infections that present to the ED and can be used as an important part of medical decision making to expedite patient care.
文摘BACKGROUND: To evaluate the utilization of point-of-care ultrasound(POCUS) for the assessment of emergency department(ED) patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and the impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on medical decision-making and patient management in the ED.METHODS: This was a retrospective review of ED patients presenting with musculoskeletal symptoms who received a POCUS over a 3.5-year period. An ED POCUS database was reviewed for musculoskeletal POCUS examinations used for medical decision-making. Electronic medical records were then reviewed for demographic characteristics, history, physical examination findings, ED course, additional imaging studies, and impact of musculoskeletal POCUS on patient management in ED. RESULTS: A total of 264 subjects(92 females, 172 males) and 292 musculoskeletal POCUS examinations were included in the fi nal analysis. Most common symptomatic sites were knee(31.8%) and ankle(16.3%). Joint effusion was the most common fi nding on musculoskeletal POCUS, noted in 33.7% of the patients, and subcutaneous edema/cobblestoning was found in 10.2% of the patients. Muscle or tendon rupture was found in 2.3% of the patients, and 1.9% of the patients had joint dislocation. Bursitis or bursa fluid was found in 3.4% of patients, and tendonitis/tendinopathy was found in 2.3%. Twenty percent of them were ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal procedures, and most of them(73.3%) were arthrocentesis. Of the included studies, all except three either changed or helped guide patient management as documented in the patients' medical records.CONCLUSION: Our study fi ndings illustrate the utility of POCUS in the evaluation of a variety of musculoskeletal pathologies in the ED.
文摘BACKGROUND: Harmless acute pancreatitis score(HAPS), neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and red blood cell distribution width(RDW) are used to determine the early prognosis of patients diagnosed with nontraumatic acute pancreatitis in the emergency department(ED).METHODS: Patients diagnosed with acute pancreatitis(K 85.9) in the ED according to the ICD10 coding during one year were included in the study. Patients with chronic pancreatitis and those who had missing data in their files were excluded from the study. Patients who did not have computed tomography(CT) in the ED were not included in the study.RESULTS: Ultimately, 322 patients were included in the study. The median age of the patients was 53.1(IQR=36–64). Of the patients, 68.1%(n=226) had etiological causes of the biliary tract. The mortality rate of these patients within the first 48 hours was 4.3%(n=14). In the logistic regression analysis performed by using Balthazar classification, HAPS score, RDW, neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio, age, diabetes mellitus and systolic blood pressure, the only independent variable in determining mortality was assigned as Balthazar classification(OR: 15; 95% CI: 3.5 to 64.4).CONCLUSIONS: HAPS, neutrophile/lymphocyte ratio and RDW were not effective in determining the mortality of nontraumatic acute pancreatitis cases within the first 48 hours. The only independent variable for determining the mortality was Balthazar classifi cation.
文摘BACKGROUND: Emergency physicians frequently encounter patients with acute small bowel obstructions (SBO). Although computed tomography (CT) imaging is the current gold standard in the assessment of patients with suspected SBO in the emergency department, a few studies have examined the use of ultrasound as an alternative imaging technique. METHODS: We evaluated the accuracy of ultrasound performed in the ED by a variety of providers (physicians with various levels of training, physician assistants) compared to CT imaging in 47 patients with suspected SBOs. RESULTS: Our data demonstrated a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 93.3% when compared to abdominal CT, and a sensitivity of 94.3% and specificity of 95.2% using a composite endpoint of abdominal CT and discharge diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Ultrasound can play an important role in the identification of small bowe obstructions in ED patients.
文摘Objective It is difficult to predict fulminant myocarditis at an early stage in the emergency department.The objective of this study was to construct and validate a simple prediction model for the early identification of fulminant myocarditis.Methods A total of 61 patients with fulminant myocarditis and 160 patients with acute myocarditis were enrolled in the training and internal validation cohorts.LASSO regression and multivariate logistic regression were selected to develop the prediction model.The selection of the model was based on overall performance and simplicity.A nomogram based on the optimal model was built,and its clinical usefulness was evaluated by decision curve analysis.The predictive model was further validated in an external validation group.Results The resulting prediction model was based on 4 factors:systolic blood pressure,troponin I,left ventricular ejection fraction,and ventricular wall motion abnormality.The Brier scores of the final model were 0.078 in the training data set and 0.061 in the internal testing data set,respectively.The C-indexes of the training data set and the testing data set were 0.952 and 0.968,respectively.Decision curve analysis showed that the nomogram model developed based on the 4 predictors above had a positive net benefit for predicting probability thresholds.In the external validation cohort,the model also showed good performance(Brier score=0.007,and C-index=0.989).Conclusion We developed and validated an early prediction model consisting of 4 clinical factors(systolic blood pressure,troponin I,left ventricular ejection fraction,and ventricular wall motion abnormality)to identify potential fulminant myocarditis patients in the emergency department.