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Objective: The underuse of analgesics, or 'oligoanalgesia,' is common in emergency departments (EDs). To improve care we must understand our patients' pain experiences as well as our clinical practice patterns. To this end, we examined pain etiology, pain management practices and patient satisfaction in 2 urban EDs.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using structured interviews and chart reviews for patients with pain who presented to either of 2 university-affiliated EDs. We assessed pain etiologies, patient pain experiences, pain management practices, and patient satisfaction with pain management.Results: The 525 study subjects reported high pain intensity levels on presentation, with a median rating of 8 on a 10-point numerical rating scale (NRS). At discharge, pain severity had decreased to a median rating of 4; however, 48% of patients were discharged from the ED in moderate to severe pain (NRS 5-10). Subjects reported spending 57% of their ED stay in moderate to severe pain. Analgesics were administered to only 50% of patients. The mean time to analgesic administration was almost 2 hours. Despite high levels of reported pain at discharge and low rates of analgesic administration, subjects reported high satisfaction with pain management.Conclusions: In the 2 EDs studied, we found high levels of pain severity for our patients, as well as low levels of analgesic use. When used, analgesic administration was often delayed. Despite these findings, patient satisfaction remained high. Despite recent efforts to improve pain management practice; oligoanalgesia remains a problem for our specialty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Optimal emergent management of traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients requires a better understanding of treatment provided in the prehospital/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and emergency department (ED) settings. Hypothesis/Problem Described in this research are the initial clinical status, airway management, fluid and blood infusions, and time course of severely-injured hemorrhagic shock patients in the EMS and ED settings from the diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) clinical trial., Methods: Data were analyzed from 17 US trauma centers gathered during a randomized, controlled, single-blinded efficacy trial of a hemoglobin solution (DCLHb) as add-on therapy versus standard therapy., Results: Among the 98 randomized patients, the mean EMS Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) was 10.6 (SD = 5.0), the mean EMS revised trauma score (RTS) was 6.3 (SD = 1.9), and the mean injury severity score (ISS) was 31 (SD = 17). Upon arrival to the ED, the GCS was 20% lower (7.8 (SD = 5.3) vs 9.7 (SD = 6.3)) and the RTS was 12% lower (5.3 (SD = 2.0) vs 6.0 (SD = 2.1)) than EMS values in blunt trauma patients (P < .001). By ED disposition, 80% of patients (78/98) were intubated. Rapid sequence intubation (RSI) was utilized in 77% (60/78), most often utilizing succinylcholine (65%) and midazolam (50%). The mean crystalloid volume infused was 4.2 L (SD = 3.4 L), 80% of which was infused within the ED. Emergency department blood transfusion occurred in 62% of patients, with an average transfused volume of 1.2 L (SD = 2.0 L). Blunt trauma patients received 2.1 times more total fluids (7.4 L vs 3.5 L, < .001) and 2.4 times more blood (2.4 L vs 1.0 L, P < .001). The mean time of patients taken from injury site to operating room (OR) was 113 minutes (SD = 87 minutes). Twenty-one (30%) of the 70 patients taken to the OR from the ED were sent within 60 minutes of the estimated injury time. Penetrating trauma patients were taken to the OR 52% sooner than blunt trauma patients (72 minutes vs 149 minutes, P < .001)., Conclusion: Both GCS and RTS decreased prior to ED arrival in blunt trauma patients. Intubation was performed using RSI, and crystalloid infusion of three times the estimated blood loss volume (L) and blood transfusion of the estimated blood loss volume (L) were provided in the EMS and ED settings. Surgical intervention for these trauma patients most often occurred more than one hour from the time of injury. Penetrating trauma patients received surgical intervention more rapidly than those with a blunt trauma mechanism.

Introduction: To assess the ability of the shock index (SI) to predict 28-day mortality in traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients treated in the diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) resuscitation clinical trials., Methods: We used data from two parallel DCLHb traumatic hemorrhagic shock efficacy trials, one in U.S. emergency departments, and one in the European Union prehospital setting to assess the relationship between SI values and 28-day mortality., Results: In the 219 patients, the mean age was 37 years, 64% sustained a blunt injury, 48% received DCLHb, 36% died, and 88% had an SI≥1.0 at study entry. The percentage of patients with an SI≥1.0 dropped by 57% (88 to 38%) from the time of study entry to 120 minutes after study resuscitation (p<0.001). Patients with a SI≥1.0, 1.4, and 1.8 at any time point were 2.3, 2.7, and 3.1 times, respectively, more likely to die by 28 days than were patients with SI values below these cutoffs (p<0.001). Similarly, after 120 minutes of resuscitation, patients with a SI≥1.0 were 3.9× times more likely to die by 28 days (40 vs. 15%, p<0.001). Although the distribution of SI values differed based on treatment group, the receiver operator characeristics data showed no difference in SI predictive ability for 28-day mortality in patients treated with DCLHb., Conclusion: In these traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients, the shock index correlates with 28-day mortality, with higher SI values indicating greater mortality risk. Although DCLHb treatment did alter the distribution of SI values, it did not influence the ability of the SI to predict 28-day mortality.

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is more prevalent in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) than in the general population. This is a concern as MDD is associated with decreased adherence to HIV treatment and contributes significantly to disability and reduced quality of life. Several studies report that, while prevalence is high, people living with HIV often do not access or follow-up with treatment of MDD. This paper examined adherence to psychiatric treatment in women living with HIV in Ontario, Canada. One-third of women referred to a psychiatry outpatient clinic did not attend their first appointment. Over half of the women who did attend came for only one or two appointments and were lost to follow-up. Potential contributing factors were examined. Approaches to enhancing psychiatric care for women living with HIV are discussed.

Introduction: The Revised Trauma Score (RTS) has been proposed as an entry criterion to identify patients with mid-range survival probability for traumatic hemorrhagic shock studies., Hypothesis/problem: Determination of which of four RTS strata (1-3.99, 2-4.99, 1-4.99, and 2-5.99) identifies patients with predicted and actual mortality rates near 50% for use as an entry criterion in traumatic hemorrhagic shock clinical trials., Methods: Existing database analysis in which demographic and injury severity data from two prior international Diaspirin Cross-Linked Hemoglobin (DCLHb) clinical trials were used to identify an RTS range that could be an optimal entry criterion in order to find the population of trauma patients with mid-range predicted and actual mortality rates., Results: Of 208 study patients, the mean age was 37 years, 65% sustained blunt trauma, 49% received DCLHb, and 57% came from the European Union study arm. The mean values were: ISS, 31 (SD = 18); RTS, 5.6 (SD = 1.8); and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), 10.4 (SD = 4.8). The mean TRISS-predicted mortality was 34% and the actual 28-day mortality was 35%. The initially proposed 1-3.99 RTS range (n = 41) had the highest predicted (79%) and actual (71%) mortality rates. The 2-5.99 RTS range (n = 79) had a 62% predicted and 53% actual mortality, and included 76% blunt trauma patients. Removal of GCS <5 patients from this RTS 2-5.99 subgroup caused a 48% further reduction in eligible patients, leaving 41 patients (20% of 208 total patients), 66% of whom sustained a blunt trauma injury. This subgroup had 54% predicted and 49% actual mortality rates. Receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis found the GCS to be as predictive of mortality as the RTS, both in the total patient population and in the RTS 2-5.99 subgroup., Conclusion: The use of an RTS 2-5.99 inclusion criterion range identifies a traumatic hemorrhagic shock patient subgroup with predicted and actual mortality that approach the desired 50% rate. The exclusion of GCS <5 from this RTS 2-5.99 subgroup patients yields a smaller, more uniform patient subgroup whose mortality is more likely related to hemorrhagic shock than traumatic brain injury. Future studies should examine whether the RTS or other physiologic criteria such as the GCS score are most useful as traumatic hemorrhagic shock study entry criteria.

Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are common and portend a high short-term risk of stroke. Evidence-based recommendations for the urgent evaluation and treatment of patients with TIA have been published. However, implementation of these recommendations reliably and consistently will require changes in the systems of care established for TIA. The National Stroke Association convened a multidisciplinary panel of experts to develop recommendations for the essential components of systems of care at hospitals to improve the quality of care provided to patients with TIA. The panel recommends that hospitals establish standardized protocols to assure rapid and complete evaluation and treatment for patients with TIA, with particular attention to urgency and close observation in patients at high risk of stroke., (Copyright © 2011 American Neurological Association.)

Purpose. Twenty-eight women, referred to C-L Psychiatry during their obstetrical inpatient stay were interviewed six months post-discharge to determine how they experienced the consultation process, whether they recollected and adhered to treatment recommendations, and whether they developed or had a recurrence of mental health problems post-discharge. Method. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted by a psychologist who had not been involved with patient care. Results. There was strong congruence between reason for referral as stated in psychiatric consult notes and participants' recollections and strong congruence and compliance regarding treatment recommendations. Sixty-four percent of women had concerns regarding mood post-discharge, of whom 66% sought professional help within six months. Participants' recommendations for improving the effectiveness of the C-L service to obstetrical inpatients pertained mainly to sensitivity to patients' feelings, consistency of message and personnel, and post-discharge follow-up. Conclusions. Obstetrical patients had good recollection of their experience of C-L psychiatry, and post-discharge compliance with treatment recommendations was high. A post-discharge telephone call might further enhance treatment compliance and encourage women who are struggling with mood difficulties to seek help. Contact between C-L psychiatry and patients' primary care physician may also enhance care post-discharge.

Background: Diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) has demonstrated a pressor effect that could adversely affect traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients through diminished perfusion to vital organs, causing base deficit (BD) and lactate abnormalities., Methods: Data from two parallel, multicenter traumatic hemorrhagic shock clinical trials from 17 US Emergency Departments and 27 European Union prehospital services using DCLHb, a hemoglobin-based resuscitation fluid., Results: In the 219 patients, the mean age was 37.3 years, 64% of the patients sustained a blunt injury, 48% received DCLHb resuscitation, and the overall 28-day mortality rate was 36.5%. BD data did not differ by treatment group (DCLHb vs. normal saline [NS]) at any time point. Study entry BD was higher in patients who died when compared with survivors in both studies (US: -14.7 vs. -9.3 and European Union: -11.1 vs. -4.1 mEq/L, p < 0.003) and at the first three time points after resuscitation. No differences in BD based on treatment group were observed in either those who survived or those who died from the hemorrhagic shock. US lactate data did not differ by treatment group (DCLHb vs. NS) at any time point. Study entry lactates were higher in US patients who ultimately died when compared with survivors (82.4 vs. 56.1 mmol/L, p < 0.003) and at all five postresuscitation time points. No lactate differences were observed between DCLHb and NS survivors or in those who died based on treatment group., Conclusions: Although patients who died had more greatly altered perfusion than those who survived, DCLHb treatment of traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients was not associated with BD or lactate abnormalities that would indicate poor perfusion.

Hemoglobin solutions have demonstrated a pressor effect that could adversely affect hemorrhagic shock patient resuscitation through accelerated hemorrhage, diminished perfusion, or inadequate resuscitation. Data from two parallel, multicenter traumatic hemorrhagic shock clinical trials in 17 US emergency departments and in 27 EU prehospital systems using diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb), a hemoglobin-based resuscitation fluid. In the 219 patients, patients were 37 years old, 64% sustained blunt injury, 48% received DCLHb, and 36% expired. Although mean systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure values differed at 2 of the 10 measured time points, blood pressure (BP) curve analysis showed no SBP, diastolic blood pressure, or MAP differences based on treatment. Although SBP values 160 and 120 mmHg or greater were 2.2x and 2.6x more frequently noted in survivors, they were not more common with DCLHb use or in DCLHb patients who expired in US study nonsurvivors or in any EU study patients. Systolic blood pressure values 160 and 120 mmHg or greater were 2.8x and 1.3x more frequently noted in DCLHb survivors as compared with normal saline survivors. Only 3% of the BP variation noted could be attributed to DCLHb use, and as expected, injury severity and baseline physiologic status were stronger predictors. In the United States alone, treatment group was not correlated by regression with BP at any time point. Neither mean BP readings nor elevated BP readings were correlated with DCLHb treatment of traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients. As such, no clinically demonstrable DCLHb pressor effect could be directly related to the adverse mortality outcome observed in the US study.

A review of psychiatric consult notes of 96 obstetric inpatients referred to a Consultation-Liaison (C-L) psychiatry service in a tertiary-level university general hospital was carried out in order to compare the characteristics of such a service in a North American setting with similar services in other parts of the world. Data extracted from consult notes included: reason for referral, current diagnosis (DSM-IV-R), psychiatric history, obstetrical history, recommended treatment approaches, current psychotropic medications, current gestational age or number of days postpartum, patient age, and partnership status. In addition, obstetrical referrals were calculated as a percentage of hospital-wide referrals to C-L psychiatry. The most prominent findings include: (1) a high C-L psychiatry referral rate from obstetrics as a percentage of total C-L referrals within the study hospital; (2) past psychiatric history alone as a prevalent reason for referral; (3) adverse reproductive event (past and/or current) as a common reason for referral. These findings differ markedly in certain ways from comparable studies and may reflect both the hospital's large high-risk pregnancy service that represents an at-risk group for mental health issues, and the focus on educational collaboration with obstetrical staff regarding risk factors for, and consequences of, perinatal mental illness. Inpatient perinatal C-L psychiatric services require creative approaches to the accurate identification and treatment of women at risk for antenatal and postpartum mental illness due to psychiatric history and/or reproductive crises.

The emergency department (ED) is the entry point into the health care system for many stroke victims. Rapid evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of stroke in the prehospital setting as well as the ED are integral to preventing morbidity and mortality. In some centers, emergency medicine physicians are the health care professionals most often able to provide thrombolytic therapy to stroke patients during the brief three-hour window for this therapy. An organized ED approach including implementing stroke care pathways and collaborating with specialized stroke teams in the ED enhance the ability to identify and manage stroke patients effectively. This approach has the potential to improve outcomes on a large scale.

Objectives: To determine what evidence exists to support the practice of viewing the deceased fetus by women terminating pregnancy for fetal anomalies., Data Sources: Electronic databases searched (1966-2007) were Medline, PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Dissertation Abstracts Index., Study Selection: Literature was reviewed that either directly or parenthetically dealt with the emotional effects on women of viewing the fetus post termination of pregnancy for fetal anomalies., Data Extraction: No randomized or controlled trials were found. The main conclusion of each article was noted., Data Synthesis: Topical focus is on viewing of the fetus by women following termination of pregnancy for fetal anomalies. Thematic emphasis is on the beneficial and detrimental aspects of fetal viewing assumed by obstetric nurses and physicians and by mental health practitioners., Conclusions: Despite an absence of empirical evidence, most articles concluded that viewing of the fetus by women post termination of pregnancy for fetal anomalies is beneficial and should be promoted. Concerns are expressed that health professionals may be inadvertently encouraging women and their partners to see the fetus because of their own or their institution's particular beliefs and practices. Health professionals must remain mindful of their underlying motives and stay open to respecting the decision of women who conclude that viewing is not appropriate for them.

This clinical policy focuses on critical issues concerning the management of adult patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with acute symptomatic carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. The subcommittee reviewed the medical literature relevant to the questions posed. The critical questions are: Should hyperbaric oxygen (HBO(2)) therapy be used for the treatment of patients with acute CO poisoning; and Can clinical or laboratory criteria identify CO-poisoned patients who are most or least likely to benefit from this therapy? Recommendations are provided on the basis of the strength of evidence of the literature. Level A recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect a high degree of clinical certainty; Level B recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect moderate clinical certainty; and Level C recommendations represent other patient management strategies that are based on preliminary, inconclusive, or conflicting evidence, or based on committee consensus. This clinical policy is intended for physicians working in hospital-based EDs.

This clinical policy focuses on critical issues concerning the management of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with acetaminophen overdose. The subcommittee reviewed the medical literature relevant to the questions posed. The critical questions are: 1. What are the indications for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the acetaminophen overdose patient with a known time of acute ingestion who can be risk stratified by th Rumack-Matthew nomogram? 2. What are the indications for NAC in the acetaminophen overdose patient who cannot be risk stratified by the Rumack-Matthew nomogram? Recommendations are provided on the basis of the strength of evidence of the literature. Level A recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect a high degree of clinical certainty; Level B recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect moderate clinical certainty; and Level C recommendations represent other patient management strategies that are based on preliminary, inconclusive, or conflicting evidence, or based on committee consensus. This guideline is intended for physicians working in EDs.

Background: The alpha-EEG anomaly during sleep, originally associated with chronic pain, is noted in several psychiatric and medical conditions and is also present in some normal subjects. The exact significance of the alpha-EEG anomaly is uncertain, but it has been suggested to be a nonspecific response to a variety of noxious stimuli. We propose that attachment insecurity, which is often associated with a state of hypervigilance during wakefulness, may be associated with the alpha-EEG anomaly during sleep., Methods: Thirty one consecutive patients referred to a Sleep Disorders Clinic for clinical assessment of sleep complaints underwent standard polysomnographic recording. The degree of alpha activity in polysomnographs was scored visually according to standard criteria. Attachment insecurity was measured with the Experience in Close Relationships - Revised questionnaire., Results: Attachment anxiety was significantly associated with the proportion of sleep in which alpha waves were present (df = 1, F = 5.01, p = 0.03). The relationship between the alpha-EEG anomaly and attachment anxiety was not explained by the distribution of sleep and mood diagnoses, medications, anxiety symptoms or depression symptoms., Conclusion: Interpersonal style in close relationships may be related to sleep physiology. Further research to determine the nature of the relationship between attachment, sleep and other factors that are related to each of these, such as a history of personal adversity, is warranted.

This clinical policy focuses on critical issues concerning the management of patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) with acetaminophen overdose. The subcommittee reviewed the medical literature relevant to the questions posed. The critical questions are: 1. What are the indications for N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in the acetaminophen overdose patient with a known time of acute ingestion who can be risk stratified by the Rumack-Matthew nomogram? 2. What are the indications for NAC in the acetaminophen overdose patient who cannot be risk stratified by the Rumack-Matthew nomogram? Recommendations are provided on the basis of the strength of evidence of the literature. Level A recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect a high degree of clinical certainty; Level B recommendations represent patient management principles that reflect moderate clinical certainty; and Level C recommendations represent other patient management strategies that are based on preliminary, inconclusive, or conflicting evidence, or based on committee consensus. This guideline is intended for physicians working in EDs.

Patients admitted with significant gastrointestinal hemorrhage (GIH) often experience in-hospital cardiac complications. This retrospective study examined 68 patients admitted from the Emergency Department to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) over a 1-year period. The patients were 75% Caucasian, 60% male, with a mean age of 57 +/- 19 years. Medical co-morbidity was noted in 70%, and 54% of patients had a history of significant alcohol use. A systolic blood pressure < 100 mm Hg was present in 26%, hemoglobin < 7 mg/dL in 32%, and three patients (4%) expired. Death, acute myocardial infarction or other cardiac complications were noted in 32% of patients. Patients older than 60 years were three times more likely to have a complicated course than were younger patients, and those with a co-morbidity were 14.8 times more likely. Patients with a history of significant alcohol use were 31% less likely to have an inpatient complication than those without such a history. Regression analysis supported the protective effect of a history of significant alcohol use and also demonstrated that a history of peptic ulcer disease was predictive of inpatient complications. Older GIH patients and those with co-morbidities may benefit from ICU disposition given their greater risk. Younger patients presenting with hematemesis and a history of significant alcohol use tended to have fewer complications such that it may be possible to manage these patients outside of the ICU if hemodynamically stable.

Background: The New Injury Severity Score (NISS) was proposed in 1997 to replace the Injury Severity Score (ISS) because it is more sensitive for mortality. We aim to test whether this is true in our patients., Methods: This study was a retrospective review of data from 6,231 consecutive patients over 3 years in the trauma registry of a Level I trauma center studying outcome, ISS, and NISS., Results: Misclassification rates were 3.97% for the NISS and 4.35% for the ISS. The receiver operating characteristic curve areas were 0.936 and 0.94, respectively. Neither the ISS nor the NISS were well calibrated (Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic, 36.11 and 49.28, respectively; p < 0.001)., Conclusion: The NISS should not replace the ISS, as they share similar accuracy and calibration.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate ED documentation of patient pain in light of the Joint Commission of Accreditation of Healthcare Organization's emphasis on pain assessment and management. A prospectively designed pain management survey was offered to patients on ED discharge. Documentation of pain intensity by ED nurses and physicians was retrospectively reviewed. Of 302 patients surveyed, 261 (86%) complete charts were available for review. Initial pain assessments were noted on 94% of the charts, but a pain scale was used for only 23% of the patients. Documentation of pain subsequent to therapy was noted on 39% of the charts, but a pain scale was used only 19% of the time. Subsequent to therapy, nurses were 2.2 x more likely to document pain assessments than physicians (30% vs 16%, P <.001). Patients with severe pain on arrival (46% vs 31%, odds ratio [OR] = 1.9, P <.02), chest pain (72% vs 32%, OR = 5.4, P <.001), or those receiving powerful analgesics (62% vs 32%, 3.5, P <.001) were more likely to receive a documented subsequent pain assessment than other patients. Pain severity is not consistently documented in ED patients, especially after therapy has been provided. Patients with severe pain and those receiving powerful analgesics were more likely to have a pain assessment subsequent to ED therapy.

This study was performed to determine the impact of electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation on urgent patient care decisions by internal medicine (IM) and emergency medicine (EM) resident physicians. Six clinical scenarios and ECGs were given to 31 IM residents and 31 EM residents at a university medical center. Based on the ECG interpretation, the residents were asked to select the best patient management from a list of choices. IM and EM residents were equally likely to choose the correct management for complete heart block (90% IM v 97% EM, P = NS), and pulseless ventricular tachycardia (VT) (94% IM v 97% EM, P = NS). IM residents were less likely to choose the correct management for acute posterior wall myocardial infarction (MI) (26% IM v 74% EM, P <.0001) and unstable supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (87% IM v 100% EM, P <.05). Residents in both programs were equally likely to misinterpret left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) (23% IM and 16% EM, P = NS) and benign early repolarization (BER) (48% IM and 52% EM, P = NS) as acute myocardial ischemia when presented with a clinical history not suggestive of cardiac ischemia. IM and EM residents were equally likely to choose the correct management for complete heart block and pulseless VT. Compared with EM residents, IM residents were less likely to choose the correct management of posterior wall MI and unstable SVT. Both IM and EM residents were prone to misinterpreting LVH and BER as acute myocardial ischemia. Resident education in both specialties should focus on ECG interpretation skills to improve patient management decisions., (Copyright 2002, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.))

Objective: To identify provider-based differences in the ED assessment and management of children presenting with uncomplicated, first-time febrile seizures., Methods: Multicenter, retrospective cohort study of seven EDs in-the Chicago area: two tertiary academic pediatric EDs (PEDs) and five community-based general EDs (GEDs). The visits of all patients with a discharge diagnosis including the term "seizure" were identified from a 30-month period. Records of patients who met criteria for simple, first-time febrile seizure were reviewed (age 6-60 months; temperature > or =38.0 degrees C; single, generalized, tonic-clonic seizure <20 minutes; "alert" or "arousable" on presentation; absence of known neurologic disease)., Results: Four hundred fifty-five records were included: 330 and 125 patients presenting to GEDs and PEDs, respectively. The two groups did not differ in mean age, vital signs, reported duration of seizure, or prior antibiotic use. Lumbar puncture (LP) was performed more often in the GED group (33% vs 22%). No patients were found to have bacterial meningitis. The patients in the GED group were more likely to receive parenteral antibiotics in the ED (56% vs 22%) and to be admitted or transferred (18% vs 4%). In a logistic regression model incorporating age, temperature, seizure duration, seizure in the ED, prior antibiotic use, primary care, and insurance status, the GED patients remained more likely to have an LP (OR 1.5), receive parenteral antibiotics (OR 2.5), and be admitted or transferred (OR 2.5)., Conclusions: There were significant setting-based differences in the evaluation and management of children with simple febrile seizures presenting to GEDs and PEDs.

Federal regulations allow an exception to informed consent when it is not feasible to obtain informed consent in certain emergency research circumstances. A multicenter, randomized, single-blinded, normal saline procedure-controlled efficacy trial of diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) in acute traumatic hemorrhagic shock was conducted. The study intended to include 850 of the most severely injured trauma patients with hemorrhage and persistent hypoperfusion as demonstrated by vital signs suggestive of vascular collapse or a base deficit that signified prolonged hypoperfusion. It was anticipated that some patients would be unable to provide informed consent, and that identification and availability of some patients' legally authorized representatives (LARs) would be unlikely within the therapeutic window of the intervention. Each participating institution therefore developed a process to implement exception to informed consent. Each hospital's proposed process was reviewed by the institutional review board, the sponsor, the FDA, and the study's data monitoring committee chair. The goal was the development of local implementation processes by which the best interests of patients and their families could be fulfilled using prospective informed consent, the exception to informed consent, and consent to continue in emergency research, as appropriate for each individual patient. This paper describes the proposed implementation method developed for Cook County Hospital. It includes several important features, 1) prospective informed consent by the patient, when feasible; 2) the ability of the patient to decline participation, even when deemed incompetent to provide prospective informed consent; 3) prospective consent by the family/LAR, when feasible; 4) the use of a scripted abbreviated consent by the patient family/ LAR in life-threatening situations when it is possible only to briefly discuss the research being conducted; 5) independent approval for the use of the consent exception by a second physician immediately prior to patient enrollment; 6) the repeated use of consent to continue (both for the family/LAR and by the patient) when an exception to consent has been utilized; and 7) ongoing review of the informed consent process on a case-by-case basis by the institution's scientific review committee. The authors believe this proposed informed consent process maximizes the communication between investigators, patients and their proxies, and the institution's scientific review committee. Multiple mechanisms exist that allow for consent to be provided or declined, both prior to and after enrollment in the research protocol. The ongoing immediate review of the process allows for process enhancements to be made as needed.

Unlabelled: In the clinical trial of diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb), optimal therapy required the immediate enrollment of patients with severe, uncompensated, traumatic hemorrhagic shock. When it was not feasible to obtain prospective consent, an exception to informed consent was used according to FDA regulation 21 CFR 50.24., Objectives: To examine the informed consent process and the use of the consent exception and consent to continue (CTC), and to describe the patients for whom this process was used., Methods: This was a multicenter, randomized, controlled, single-blinded efficacy trial of DCLHb as an adjunct to standard therapy in the treatment of severe, traumatic hemorrhagic shock. Patients with unstable vital signs or a critical base deficit were treated, with a primary study endpoint of 28-day mortality., Results: During the 11-month study period, 112 patients were randomized in 18 U.S. trauma centers, and data from 98 of the infused patients were analyzed. Prospective consent was obtained from two patients, three family members, and one legally authorized representative (LAR) (6%). Consent to continue was requested for 89 patients (89%), and full participation was granted for 87 of these patients (98%). Consent to continue was provided by 54 (98%) of the 55 patients approached. The mean number of days for family/LAR CTC was 1.1 +/-3.8 days, and 50% of the time it was obtained on the day of study enrollment. Patient CTC was obtained in an average of 13 +/- 23 days, with a median of four days. Patients treated in this protocol were more likely to have sustained penetrating trauma than the overall trauma patient population treated in these trauma centers (44% vs 21%, p = 0.002)., Conclusions: Informed consent in this study of an emergent therapy most often involved the use of the consent exception and consent to continue, the latter of which occurred in a timely manner. Nearly all of those who were approached for CTC approved full participation in the study, suggesting acceptance of the process outlined in the new regulations. Patients treated in a hemorrhagic shock clinical trial may differ from the general trauma patient population.

Context: Severe, uncompensated, traumatic hemorrhagic shock causes significant morbidity and mortality, but resuscitation with an oxygen-carrying fluid might improve patient outcomes., Objective: To determine if the infusion of up to 1000 mL of diaspirin cross-linked hemoglobin (DCLHb) during the initial hospital resuscitation could reduce 28-day mortality in traumatic hemorrhagic shock patients., Design and Setting: Multicenter, randomized, controlled, single-blinded efficacy trial conducted between February 1997 and January 1998 at 18 US trauma centers selected for their high volume of critically injured trauma patients, but 1 did not enroll patients., Patients: A total of 112 patients with traumatic hemorrhagic shock and unstable vital signs or a critical base deficit, who had a mean (SD) patient age of 39 (20) years. Of the infused patients, 79% were male and 56% were white. An exception to informed consent was used when necessary., Intervention: All patients were to be infused with 500 mL of DCLHb or saline solution. Critically ill patients who still met entry criteria could have received up to an additional 500 mL during the 1-hour infusion period., Main Outcome Measures: Twenty-eight day mortality, 28-day morbidity, 48-hour mortality, and 24-hour lactate levels., Results: Of the 112 patients, 98 (88%) were infused with DCLHb or saline solution. At 28 days, 24 (46%) of the 52 patients infused with DCLHb died, and 8 (17%) of the 46 patients infused with the saline solution died (P = .003). At 48 hours, 20 (38%) of the 52 patients infused with DCLHb died and 7 (15%) of the 46 patients infused with the saline solution died (P = .01). The 28-day morbidity rate, as measured by the multiple organ dysfunction score, was 72% higher in the DCLHb group (P = .03). There was no difference in adverse event rates or the 24-hour lactate levels., Conclusions: Mortality was higher for patients treated with DCLHb. Although further analysis should investigate whether the mortality difference was solely due to a direct treatment effect or to other factors, DCLHb does not appear to be an effective resuscitation fluid.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine if nocturnal panic patients have greater autonomic dysregulation than patients with daytime panic., Methods: Three groups were studied: patients who suffer from panic attacks during sleep (n = 12), those who suffer from daytime panic attacks only (n = 12), and control subjects (n = 12). Each subject underwent 24-hour holter monitoring for heart rate variability (HRV), an overnight sleep recording, and sodium lactate challenge during wakefulness., Results: There was a marked subjective response to the sodium lactate challenge in the panic disorder (PD) patients but not in control subjects. Each group showed changes in HRV in response to sodium lactate challenge. The decrease in HRV measures was more marked in PD patients as a whole than in control subjects. During non-rapid eye movement (REM) sleep the value for total power (TP) was significantly higher in the nocturnal panic patients. The PD patients as a whole had higher values for TP and low-frequency (LF) power during REM sleep than control subjects. There were no significant differences between the two PD groups in sleep architecture. The PD patients as a whole had lower sleep efficiency and less stage 4 sleep than control subjects., Conclusions: These findings indicate that there are substantial differences between PD and control subjects in autonomic regulation and that there are small differences between patients with daytime panic attacks and those with sleep-related panic attacks.

Unlabelled: Accurate prognosis in suspected acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is essential for appropriate use of thrombolytic therapy and primary angioplasty. However, previous models may be limited because the 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) does not examine the right ventricular (RV) and posterior myocardium. We evaluated ST segment elevation (STSE) in posterior (V7-V9) and RV (V4R-V6R) leads to determine their predictive value for hospital life-threatening complications (HLTCs)., Method and Results: This prospective trial of seven Midwestern hospital emergency departments (EDs) had inclusion criteria of age 35 years, chest pain suggestive of ischemia, and coronary care unit (CCU) admission. ECG leads were test positive if STSE was > 0.1 mV. Patients were positive for HLTCs if ED or inpatient hospital course included: ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia, second- or third-degree block, shock, arrest, or death. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to test each lead's association with HLTCs. Of 533 patients, 64.7% (345/533) had AMI and 15.8% (85/533) had HLTCs. The sensitivity of 18 leads for HLTCS was increased by 5.8%, but specificity decreased by 8.2%. ECG subgroups by STSE were associated with the following HLTC rates: inferior/+RV (32.4%); anterior (29.5%), lateral (23.1%), inferior RV (17.9%), and posterior (16.2%). V1 (odds = 3.2) and V6R (odds = 3.1) were statistically significant independent predictors., Conclusion: Posterior and RV leads did not increase the ECG's overall prognostic value, but in the presence of inferior STSE, were associated with low and high complication rates, respectively. Right and left precordial leads were the best predictors of HTLCs.

In this multicenter prospective trial, we studied posterior (V7 to V9) and right ventricular (V4R to V6R) leads to assess their accuracy compared with standard 12-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) for the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Patients aged >34 years with suspected AMI received posterior and right ventricular leads immediately after the initial 12-lead ECG. ST elevation of 0.1 mV in 2 leads was blindly determined and inter-rater reliability estimated. AMI was diagnosed by World Health Organization criteria. The diagnostic value of nonstandard leads was determined when 12-lead ST elevation was absent and present and multivariate stepwise regression analysis was also performed. Of 533 study patients, 64.7% (345 of 533) had AMI and 24.8% received thrombolytic therapy. Posterior and right ventricular leads increased sensitivity for AMI by 8.4% (p = 0.03) but decreased specificity by 7.0% (p = 0.06). The likelihood ratios of a positive test for 12, 12 + posterior, and 12 + right ventricular ECGs were 6.4, 5.6, and 4.5, respectively. Increased AMI rates (positive predictive values) were found when ST elevation was present on 6 nonstandard leads (69.1%), on 12 leads only (88.4%), and on both 6 and 12 leads (96.8%; p <0.001). Treatment rates with thrombolytic therapy increased in parallel with this electrocardiographic gradient. Logistic regression analysis showed that 4 leads were independently predictive of AMI (p <0.001): leads I, II, V3, V5R; V9 approached statistical significance (p = 0.055). The standard ECG is not optimal for detecting ST-segment elevation in AMI, but its accuracy is only modestly improved by the addition of posterior and right ventricular leads.

This article reviews changes in circadian rhythms that have been reported to occur in the elderly psychiatric population. Data relating to circadian changes in normal aging are included where relevant. Information was obtained from: (1) a computerized MEDLINE search from 1975 to May 1996; (2) a review of bibliographies of papers obtained through the computerized search; and (3) texts on chronobiology. We could not locate any information relating to circadian rhythms and mania, anxiety, or paranoid disorders in old age. Disruption to the sleep/wake cycle, temperature, melatonin, and motor activity rhythms have been reported in dementia and depression, and disruption to some neuroendocrine and cardiovascular rhythms are reported in dementia. Disruption to circadian rhythmicity has implications for the management of dementia patients: for example, the sleep/wake and behavioral disturbances, and for the long-term management of mood disorders. A number of circadian markers have not been studied and several patient groups have received no research attention to date.

We sought to develop a unique educational course for emergency medicine residents that provides the essential knowledge, the practical skills, and the motivation to complete a research project during the residency. A 5-day mandatory course was designed for first-year emergency medicine residents. Unique features of the curriculum include 1) didactic lectures paired with workshops teaching practical skills and 2) the use of a hypothetical research question ("mock project") that is utilized for practical experience at each step and results in an oral presentation of the completed research project. The course was evaluated with pre- and post-tests of general research knowledge, quality of the final presentations, and a post-course questionnaire. Following completion of the course, the 16 emergency medicine resident participants showed significant improvement in research knowledge, as evidenced by higher median post-test scores and an absolute increase in the pass rate of 50%. Residents' final course presentations were given ratings of "above average" to "superior" by all observing faculty members. Finally, 87.5% of the residents felt that developing a mock project during the course ("hands-on" experience) increased their confidence and interest in conducting future academic research. Thus, an introductory course in research methodology that utilizes didactic lectures paired with appropriate practical workshops and incorporates completion of a mock research project may provide an effective method for teaching emergency medicine residents to conduct research.

Objective: To determine whether acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients who have negative ECGs on presentation have significantly lower complication rates than do those AMI patients who have positive ECGs on presentation., Methods: Retrospective, cohort analysis comparing rates of hospital complications (ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia, shock, atrial arrhythmia or bradyarrhythmia with systolic blood pressure < or = 90 mm Hg, pulmonary edema) or interventions among patients with a final hospital diagnosis of AMI and an initially negative vs positive ECG. A negative ECG was normal or had nonspecific ST-segment and/or T-wave abnormalities (upright, flattened T waves; an isolated inverted T wave; ST depression < 0.1 mV; tall T waves with J-point elevation) or minor nonischemic abnormalities. Sample size was adequate to detect a 30% between-group difference in complication rates [alpha = 0.05, 1 - beta (power) = 0.80]., Results: The 27 negative-ECG AMI patients differed from the 38 control patients in (mean +/- SD) age [57 +/- 12 vs 66 +/- 12 years, p < 0.01] but not in gender or history of AMI. The negative- and positive-ECG groups had similar rates of hospital complications [30% (95% CI: 13-47%) vs 42% (95% CI: 26-58%), p = 0.44] and intensive procedures [19% (95% CI: 4-34%) vs 29% (95% CI: 15-43%), p = 0.50], respectively. The negative-ECG patients with hospital complications had ECG evolution precede the event in 83% (95% CI: 69-97%) of cases; persistently negative-ECG patients had no complications [(95% CI: 0-33%), p = 0.06]., Conclusions: Negative- and positive-ECG AMI patients do not have moderate or large differences in the rates of in-hospital complications. Most negative-ECG patients who suffer complications evolve ECG changes prior to the event and such changes indicate the potential need for a higher level of care.

Objective: To study the epidemiology and preventability of blood contact with skin and mucous membranes during surgical procedures., Design: Observers present at 1,382 surgical procedures recorded information about the procedure, the personnel present, and the contacts that occurred., Setting: Four US teaching hospitals during 1990., Participants: Operating room personnel in five surgical specialties., Main Outcome Measures: Numbers and circumstances of contact between the patient's blood (or other infective fluids) and surgical personnel's mucous membranes (mucous membrane contacts) or skin (skin contacts, excluding percutaneous injuries)., Results: A total of 1,069 skin (including 620 hand, 258 body, and 172 face) and 32 mucous membrane (all affecting eyes) contacts were observed. Surgeons sustained most contacts (19% had > or = 1 skin contact and 0.5% had > or = 1 mucous membrane-eye contact). Hand contacts were 72% lower among surgeons who double gloved, and face contacts were prevented reliably by face shields. Mucous membrane-eye contacts were significantly less frequent in surgeons wearing eyeglasses and were absent in surgeons wearing goggles or face shields. Among surgeons, risk factors for skin contact depended on the area of contact: hand contacts were associated most closely with procedure duration (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 9.4; > or = 4 versus < 1 hour); body contacts (arms, legs, and torso) with estimated blood losses (adjusted OR, 8.4; > or = 1,000 versus < 100 mL); and face contacts, with orthopedic service (adjusted OR, 7.5 compared with general surgery)., Conclusion: Skin and mucous membrane contacts are preventable by appropriate barrier precautions, yet occur commonly during surgery. Surgeons who perform procedures similar to those included in this study should strongly consider double gloving, changing gloves routinely during surgery, or both.

Study Objective: To study the relationship between a trauma center per diem charges and medicare DRG reimbursement., Design: Retrospective comparison of charges ($630/day, $1500/ICU day) and hypothetical DRG reimbursement using medical records ICD-9 N and P codes and version 5.0 of grouper., Setting: An urban level I trauma center that participates in a trauma system that serves a population of 3 million people., Patient Population: Trauma patients > or = 16 years old (mean age of 32 years) admitted and discharged between 1/1/88 and 9/30/88. The group was 85% male, 75% black, with a blunt mechanism of injury in 64%. The mean ICU stay was 0.9 days, and the mean total length of stay was 5.0 days., Results: Total per diem charges were $8,652.159, and DRG reimbursement was $8,636,505, causing a net loss of $15,654, or 0.2% of charges. Mean charges and reimbursement did not differ for the entire group. The mean loss per patient was "8. Mean charges and reimbursement differed in penetrating trauma patients (mean loss = $138), as well as those with different lengths of stay. The correlation between charges and reimbursement was 0.42; for penetrating trauma patients, the correlation was 0.58 (p < .001)., Conclusion: If DRG reimbursement were provided for all admitted trauma patients, the amount would equal per diem rates. Trauma centers with similar patients and lengths of stay can use these per diem rates to estimate DRG reimbursement.