In this edition of the Air Care series we take a look at the LVAD via post and podcast, introducing you to the meeting of man and machine. Adam Gottula, MD interviews Liz Powell, MD and Paige Barger, NP covering the spectrum of LVAD basics from common functions to life threatening complications.
Read MoreShan Modi, MD walks us through a critically ill patient with pulmonary embolism then breaks down the literature surrounding the management of Pulmonary Embolism both in the Emergency Department and Critical Care Transport Environment. We will cover fluid support, vasopressor usage, ventilatory management, vasodilators, ECMO and more!
Read MoreKatherine Connelly, MD reviews the literature surrounding the definition and management of sepsis both in the Emergency Department and Critical Care Transport Environment. We will cover pressor usage, as well as appropriate antibiotic coverage and if there is any role for steroids (for now…)
Read MoreCatheter associated urinary tract infection (“CAUTI”) is one of the most common nosocomial infections in hospitalized patients. The use of external urinary catheters, the male external catheter, colloquially known as the “condom catheter,” and the wicking catheter, most often used in females, may help prevent the occurrence of CAUTI. In the Emergency Department, we are poised in a position where what we do (or don't do, such as insert a foley) has the potential to reduce iatrogenic harm throughout the hospital.
Read MoreSeverely burned patients can be intimidating for even the most seasoned critical care transport providers. These patients often require aggressive resuscitation and multiple procedures in a relatively short period of time. It is often easy for providers to become overwhelmed, necessitating an algorithmic approach to the patient, similar to traumatically injured patients, is crucial. By advancing through the primary survey and stabilizing the patient while starting aggressive but goal directed crystalloid resuscitation, critical care transport providers can bring ICU level care to one of the sickest pre-hospital patient populations.
Read MoreIn HEMS, there are rare instances where ‘stay and play’ is the safest thing for the patient. Exsanguinating variceal bleed is one of those conditions. This week Dr. Whitford takes us step-by-step through the placement and confirmation of balloon tamponade placement (Minnesota Tube) for stabilization of these bleeds. We hope by reading this, it gives you another 6 months of this not happening on your next transport or ED shift...
Read MoreCardiogenic shock presents many challenges in both the transport environment and hospital setting. We aim to review the current state of evidence pertaining to the medical management in the critical care transport environment.
Read MoreSRU (pronounced "shrew") = Shock Resuscitation Unit
Training in, and managing, the SRU is one of the crown jewels of our residency. It is where the sickest of the sick patients are found in our ED. It is a crucible, a test of knowledge and strength, and a true manifestation of the tripartite mission of our department: Leadership, Excellence, and Opportunity.
Training in, and managing, the SRU is one of the crown jewels of our residency. It is where the sickest of the sick patients are found in our ED. It is a crucible, a test of knowledge and strength, and a true manifestation of the tripartite mission of our department: Leadership, Excellence, and Opportunity.
