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Emergency Medical Minute

 

Jul 31, 2018

Author: Sam Killian, MD.

Educational Pearls:

 

  • Computer interpretation has a very good negative predictive value of a normal EKG (99%).
  • Of 222 interpreted as “normal,” 13 were deemed to have some abnormality by a cardiologist in a recent study.
  • Those 13 EKG’s were read by 2 ER docs, and only 1...


Jul 27, 2018

Author: Erik Verzemnieks, MD

Educational Pearls:

 

  • Otic (ear) specific antibiotic drops can be expensive
  • Opthalmic (eye) versions are basically identical and can be used as an affordable substitute as many are on the $4 drug lists
  • But don’t do the reverse (don't use ear drops on the eye)
  • Use caution when...


Jul 25, 2018

Author: Michael Hunt, MD

Educational Pearls:

 

  • Toxicity happens from local anesthetics being given too fast, too much, or in the unintended spot
  • Systemic toxicity manifests first with neurologic symptoms like circumoral numbness, tinnitus, blurred vision, nausea, and even seizures. Severe toxicity can then progress...


Jul 23, 2018

Author: Don Stader, MD.

Educational Pearls:

 

  • A baby can be born dependent on opioids but not addicted to them.
  • Opioid addiction (Opioid Use Disorder) is a disease of mature brains and is characterized by compulsive drug use despite adverse consequences.
  • Opioid addiction is a disease that affects the reward center...


Jul 20, 2018

Author: Aaron Lessen, MD

Educational Pearls:

 

  • Re-emerging STI.
  • Progresses through distinct phases if untreated:
  • Primary syphilis: frequently overlooked because initial chancre is painless.
  • Secondary syphilis: viral syndrome, rash on trunk, palms, and soles.
  • Latent syphilis: asymptomatic period, lasting 5-20...