Evidence-Based Medicine

A review of the CRASH-3 trial and whether tranexamic acid (TXA) is of benefit in traumatic brain injury patients.

Does a McGrath videolaryngoscope improve first-pass intubation compared with a Macintosh laryngoscope in prehospital care? This 2019 appraisal examines a randomised trial, including its early termination, crossover between devices and the limits of drawing a clear verdict from the results.

This appraisal examines 2019 guidance on acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding, including risk assessment, investigation and referral. It considers the strength of the supporting evidence and how access to endoscopy and interventional radiology affects the application of recommendations in emergency care.

Could a resuscitative care unit bring short-term critical care closer to the emergency department? This 2019 review explores the proposed model, staffing and training requirements, its possible fit within UK services and the limitations of early outcome evidence.

Should severely injured patients receive an early vena cava filter when anticoagulant thromboprophylaxis is initially unsuitable? Dan Horner examines a 2019 randomised trial, weighing its main outcome, subgroup findings and potential harms before considering what it means for trauma care.

Can an intraosseous blood sample provide dependable laboratory results in a critically ill patient? This 2019 appraisal examines a systematic review, highlighting the small amount of relevant patient data and why correlation between samples does not necessarily establish agreement.