The SUPERB trial compared ultrasound-guided supraclavicular block with Bier block for distal forearm fracture reduction in the ED. We examine its pain outcomes, the potential for longer analgesia and the training and safety questions involved in extending this technique to emergency practice.
The EVIDENCE trial asked if rapid transport with ongoing CPR improves survival in refractory out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Results: no clear benefit over on-scene resuscitation.
The Ket-Mid trial tested adding ketamine to midazolam for initial treatment of paediatric convulsive status epilepticus. We review its seizure-control findings and explain why the single-centre setting, delayed treatment and differences from UK practice make the author cautious about changing care.
JC: Ketamine or Midazolam as first choice for Paediatric Status Epilepticus? St Emlyn’s Read More
Could stellate ganglion block have a role during refractory cardiac arrest? This appraisal examines a scoping review of 32 reported cases, the rationale for the technique and why publication bias and other treatments make the apparent benefits difficult to interpret.
JC: Intra-arrest Stellate Ganglion Block Read More
How should we assess children with one or two positive PECARN abdominal trauma criteria? This appraisal examines a secondary analysis of the prediction rule, the different risks associated with individual findings and the continuing role of clinical judgement and repeated assessment.
Evaluating the PECARN Abdominal Trauma Rule in the grey zone…. Read More
Can arterial lines be placed during cardiac arrest in the ED, and what can they tell us? This appraisal reviews one department’s experience, the selection bias in its small intervention group and why feasibility does not establish better patient outcomes.
Arterial Line Placement During Cardiac Arrest: The ED experience. Read More
Illicit drug-induced hyperthermia presents difficult decisions under time pressure. This review discusses recognition, heat production, cooling and supportive care, drawing on clinical cases and examining the practical pitfalls of managing these uncommon emergencies.
JC: Illicit Drug Induced Hyperthermia: A Time-Critical Toxicological Emergency Read More
Can salbutamol relieve pain in renal colic? We review a phase II randomised controlled trial exploring intravenous salbutamol as an adjunct analgesic in the emergency department.
JC: Salbutamol for Analgesia in Renal Colic – Worth a Puff or a Painful Disappointment? Read More
