Three research reviews explore goal-directed chest compressions, ventilation during cardiac arrest and cerebral oximetry. Greg Yates considers what animal and human studies contribute to physiologically guided resuscitation, and where further evidence is needed.
A retrospective review of 600 patients treated for suspected sepsis in US emergency departments raises questions about antibiotic overtreatment. We examine the study’s use of hindsight, possible treatment-related harms and how its findings translate to UK 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.
Can bedside mixtures provide a reliable calcium gel for hydrofluoric acid burns? Greg Yates reviews a laboratory study of viscosity and calcium concentration, and considers what its findings mean for stocking commercial antidote supplies in emergency departments.
A review of the GECCO (Global health and emergency care) research summit in the UK bringing together expert speakers, panelists and workshop facilitators.