The most striking abnormality is the prolonged QRS duration. The QRS duration should be up to 100 milliseconds; whereas in this example, it is considerably prolonged, resulting in a wide QRS complex....
Acute heart failure (AHF) is characterised by new onset of heart failure or worsening heart failure presenting with cardiorespiratory symptoms. It is difficult to diagnose in the prehospital...
The primary aims of this rapid review of the literature are to determine: whether the CFS could be used in the prognostication of cardiac arrest; and, secondarily, whether the tool could be adapted...
While the pathophysiology of neuroleptic malignant syndrome is complex and not fully understood (Berman, 2011), experts agree it involves a marked, sudden reduction in central dopaminergic activity...
Heat-related illnesses have been documented and treated since written historical records began. Various synonyms have been used through the ages, including sunstroke, siriasis, thermic fever, ardent...
Over the last few years, I have been on some fascinating placements. From the ambulance service, various locations in my local hospital, secure units and, most recently, primary care. At each...
In December, I undertook my Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving (CERAD) Level 3, which was very content heavy and intense, lasting for 4 weeks, with a short interlude for Christmas and...
We are then moved straight into consultation and decision-making. These skills are described as the scaffolding on which to build a working relationship with the patient—something I couldn't agree...
In last month's issue, I delved into the culture within a GP practice, and the ways in which it differs to the culture in the ambulance service. This month I want to talk about relating to the patient...
Around one in four patients with an acutely occluded coronary artery do not present with ST elevation. These acute ‘occlusive MI’ (OMI) patients do not meet the standard ST elevation criteria (mm) for...
Peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) are invasive devices that are widely used by paramedics for the administration of intravenous (IV) therapy; however, adverse events including PIVC-associated...
A survey study of 39 EMS agencies across six states of the United States was carried out. The survey (Appendix A, online) was developed as part of a larger study examining preventable serious adverse...