Anesthesia Key

Key Points Print Section Listen Consider the diagnosis of testicular torsion in any male with abdominal pain. Perform a genitourinary (GU) examination on males complaining of abdominal pain, even if…

Key Points Print Section Listen Assemble sufficient staff and supplies to care for both the mother and newborn. When vaginal bleeding is present, defer the pelvic examination until placenta previa…

Key Points Print Section Listen Vaginal discharge is a common presenting complaint in reproductive-age women. Possible diagnoses include vaginitis, cervicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Clinical evaluation for the diagnosis…

Key Points Print Section Listen A high index of suspicion is needed for the initial diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), particularly in the context of atypical presenting symptoms. Consider…

Key Points Print Section Listen Differentiate a contaminated urinalysis from urinary tract infection (UTI). Obtain a catheterized urine specimen when the diagnosis is in question. Send a urine culture only…

Key Points Print Section Listen The classic presentation of mesenteric ischemia is acute abdominal pain that is “out of proportion” to exam. The majority of patients with mesenteric ischemia have…

Key Points Print Section Listen Identification of the septic patient is the important first step. All other critical actions are missed if this does not occur. Lactate measurement is critical…

Key Points Print Section Listen The classic triad of meningitis includes fever, neck stiffness, and altered mental status. However, all 3 of these are present less than half of patients…

Key Points Print Section Listen Intestinal obstruction presents with acute abdominal pain, abdominal distension, and vomiting. Abdominal radiographs can demonstrate obstruction, but computed tomography is more sensitive. Intestinal obstruction is…

Key Points Print Section Listen A blood or body fluid exposure refers to contact with potentially infected fluids through non-intact skin, mucous membranes, or skin penetrated by a sharp object….