First 10 EM

FEBRUARY 24, 2025

I have covered calcium channel blockers for atrial fibrillation a number of times. If you are pursuing a rate control approach, calcium channel blockers probably result in more rapid control. Thus, if you are trying to send these patients home, they might be a good choice. However, for long term management, cardiologists seem to prefer […] The post Diltiazem for atrial fibrillation: does calcium pretreatment help?

EMS 78

EMS 78

REBEL EM

FEBRUARY 24, 2025

Background In 1979, Hiroshi Natori was the first to appreciate the sonographic changes that occur in the inferior vena cava (IVC)s diameter with ventilation in spontaneously breathing patients, mechanically ventilated patients, and those with carcinogenic and tuberculoid cardiac tamponade. 1 They noticed how spontaneously breathing patients had their IVC collapse with inspiration; and ventilated patients had their IVC dilate during positive pressure ventilation.

ALS 74

ALS E-9-1-1 Critical Care OR 74

First Responders Foundation

FEBRUARY 24, 2025

First responders face extraordinary stress and trauma throughout their careers. Whether its responding to a natural disaster, handling a violent situation, or witnessing the aftermath of a tragic event, the emotional and mental toll can be overwhelming for first responders and their family members. First responder peer support groups offer a vital resource to share their experiences and receive support from others who understand the unique challenges they face.

First Responder 59

First Responder Public Safety OR 59

Don't Forget the Bubbles

FEBRUARY 24, 2025

Two-month-old Isla presents to their local hospital following a prolonged apnoea at home. They had a two-day history of reduced feeding. Their clinical examination is unremarkable: normal heart sounds, palpable femoral pulses bilaterally, and no rashes, bruises, or signs of injury. They have a soft anterior fontanelle and no focal neurology. Because of their worsening respiratory acidosis, they were intubated in the ED, The initial chest-x ray shows a right-sided consolidation, in keeping with b

ALS 57

ALS Critical Care OR Life Support 57