EM Clerkship

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) – Autoimmune polyneuropathy that results in widespread demylination of peripheral nerves Typically occur 1 week after a triggering infection Paresthesias/Neuropathic Pain -> Ascending symmetric paralysis -> Respiratory Failure Major Diagnostic Criteria Treatment – IVIG and monitor respiratory status

Critical Actions:

Orbital Compartment Syndrome – needs to be diagnosed CLINICALLY On exam, LOOK for: Proptosis, Ophthalmoplegia, Afferent Pupillary Defect, Vision Loss On exam, FEEL for: Rock hard globe, tense eyelids, resistance to retropulsion IOP > 40 means immediate canthotomy is indicated! Don’t perform if open globe is present Lateral Canthotomy Procedure: Anesthetize, Devascularize, Canthotomy, Cantholysis (inferior […]

You are working at Clerkship General when the next chart is put into your rack. It’s a 76 year-old male who has fallen. Initial Vitals: HR: 101 BP: 138/85 Temp: 98.0F RR: 20 O2: 99% (Room Air) Critical Actions:

Symptoms of stroke – weakness, facial droop, slurred speech. vision loss, vertigo, ataxia, confusion or changes to mental status.   The “typical” stroke workup – blood glucose level, CTH non-con, CTA head/neck, CT Perfusion, CBC BMP Troponin EKG CXR and Coags.  Common stroke mimics – hypoglycemia, drug/alcohol intoxication, Bell’s palsy, aortic dissection, complex migraines, and […]

You are working at Clerkship General when one of the nurses comes and grabs you. “Hey doc, we need you in bed 10. I think this patient is having a stroke.” Initial Vitals: HR: 51 BP: 201/98 Temp: 98.0F RR: 18 O2: 99% (Room Air) Critical Actions:

You are working at Clerkship General when the next patient is put into your rack. It is an 8 year-old male with vomiting Initial Vitals: HR: 119 BP: 104/63 Temp: 98.0F RR: 20 O2: 99% (Room Air) Critical Actions: References: Mellick LB, Sinex JE, Gibson RW, Mears K. A Systematic Review of Testicle Survival Time […]

Phase One: CNS Phase Two: Cardiopulmonary Phase Three: Renal Diagnosis: Treatment: Further Reading: EMCrit Toxic Alcohols

You are working at Clerkship General when you hear an EMS call on the radio. Clerkship General, we are bringing you Arthur. He is intoxicated… Again Initial Vitals: HR: 116 BP: 150/70 Temp: 98.8 RR: 26 O2: 85% (Room Air) Critical Actions: