Respiratory distress
Most elderly patients who present with inhalation of foreign material have had a stroke whilst eating. The patient may grip the throat with one hand and the wrist with the…
Collapse and sudden illness
A decreased level of consciousness indicates that something is wrong with the brain or its fuel supply. It may be: 1 Poisoning or gross metabolic disturbance (including CO2 narcosis and hypothermia)…
The lower limb
Four four-letter words describe a structured approach to examination of the limbs: LOOK, FEEL, MOVE, X-RAY. Immediate Assessment and Management Start with the ABCs as discussed in Chapter 1. Apply…
The upper limb
Box 8.1 Upper Limb Support and Splintage Broad Arm or Triangular Sling Used to support the weight of the arm and restrict its movement. Useful for: fractures, dislocations and other painful…
Children’s problems in the emergency department
In the UK in 2012 Around 10% of children have a mental disorder Over 5% of children are disabled One in 400 children is on the child protection register (or…
Cardiac arrest and cardiac dysrhythmias
In 20% of people with cardiac arrest there is no previous history of ischaemic heart disease. The heart is a pump with an electrical controlling system. Its power supply comes…
Chest pain
Patients with chest pain account for more than 20% of all medical admissions in the UK. Immediate Assessment and Management Assess ABCs as outlined in Chapter 1. Reassure the patient….
Medicolegal aspects of emergency medicine
All clothing from a wounded patient should be preserved in a sealed, labelled bag for the attention of the investigating police officers. Gunshot Wounds Airguns: these compressed air-driven weapons propel…
Ophthalmic, ENT and facial conditions
Box 22.1 How to Test Visual Acuity Test each eye separately with patient wearing normal spectacles. Snellen letter chart is 6 m in front of patient (or equivalent distance using a mirror)…
