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….

Key Points Print Section Listen Fever is a symptom, not a disease. Fever should not be confused with hyperthermia. Temperatures higher than 41°C (105.8°F) are almost always due to hyperthermia…

Key Points Print Section Listen Diagnosis of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is frequently missed or delayed. The most common misdiagnosis is renal colic. AAA must be considered in any…

Key Points Print Section Listen Biliary colic frequently presents with epigastric or right upper quadrant pain that resolves in a few hours and is not associated with fever or leukocytosis….

Key Points Print Section Listen Aggressive resuscitative measures (intravenous access, crystalloid bolus, and blood products) are necessary in unstable patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. A negative nasogastric lavage does not…

Key Points Print Section Listen The absence of leukocytosis or the presence of diarrhea does not rule out appendicitis. Appendicitis is a clinical diagnosis, with imaging aiding in atypical presentations…

Key Points Print Section Listen primary survey should be conducted to rapidly screen for vascular catastrophes, abdominal sepsis, or perforated viscus. Appendicitis should always be on the differential diagnosis for…