So often we apply qualitative dichotomies to quantitative differences even when questionable clinical distinction exists. Such is the case with the general interpretation of a recent article published in Resuscitation.Huis in ’t Veld et al examined video recordings of real life Emergency Department resuscitations of patients in cardiac arrest (1). Over a one year period 23 … [Read more...]
EM Nerd-The Case of the Bridge to Nowhere
The use of mechanical cardiopulmonary resuscitation (mCPR) has been a polarizing topic almost from its inception. The idea, a simple one. Why not build a machine that is capable of doing perfect chest compressions? A simple, effective way to eliminate the inconsistencies common to manual chest compressions. And yet, despite building a number of devices that are capable of … [Read more...]
EM Nerd-The Case of the Tell-Tale Heart
We can all agree that the use of bedside ultrasound (US) has changed the practice of Emergency Medicine for the better. But with the addition of such a tool, we are now faced with the question of how best to apply this novel modality into our practice. The emergency management of cardiac arrest seems like the ideal condition in which to utilize the diagnostic powers of bedside … [Read more...]
The Case of the Indiscriminate Waveform
From the very start of our Residency training, Emergency Medicine Physicians are tasked with committing to memory the correctable causes of PEA arrest. It is expected any intern worth their salt should be able to recite the H’s & T’s proselytized by the AHA as far back as 1995 (1). And yet, it quickly becomes evident that this strategy for the management of PEA arrest is … [Read more...]
The Case of the Perfect Imperfection
The Enemy of Good is PerfectThe interpretation of literature is not dissimilar from the interpretation of the Rorschach tests. To one person the data appears to be a freshly hatched butterfly full of hope and promise. While to another it is a discomforting stain resulting from the splatter of improperly handled bodily excrement. What you see when looking at the data is based … [Read more...]
Hi, my name is Scott Weingart.