What does a raised lactate actually tell us? This 2015 physiology discussion revisits lactate production and clearance, then explores hypoxia, the stress response and interpretation in sepsis and trauma. It questions the leap from a marker of illness severity to a treatment endpoint.
The 2015 REVERT trial compared a modified Valsalva manoeuvre with the standard technique in adults with stable supraventricular tachycardia. This appraisal examines conversion to sinus rhythm, the need for further treatment and practical questions about applying the findings in the emergency department.
JC The REVERT trial: Dip or doom for SVT in the Emergency Department? Read More
This 2015 induction post and podcast explore the assessment of back pain in the emergency department. Topics include recognising serious causes, taking a neurological history, documenting examination findings and seeking senior advice, alongside symptom relief, mobility and communication with primary care.
Back Pain in the Emergency Department Read More
An archive of St Emlyn’s learning resources mapped to the 2010 RCEM curriculum. This 2015 guide explains how topic links and curriculum codes help readers find material for core, higher and paediatric training, with ultrasound included; it is not a map of the current curriculum.
Update on RCEM curriculum mapping Read More
Do vein-finding devices improve first-attempt cannulation in children? This 2015 appraisal compares ultrasound, near-infrared imaging and standard practice in a Canadian emergency department trial. It examines staff training, sample size and generalisability, asking whether better vein visualisation translates into better outcomes.
JC: Gadgets and Gizmos for gaining IV access in kids. St.Emlyn’s Read More
How can online learning support doctors whose shifts prevent them attending departmental teaching? This 2015 announcement explains St Emlyn’s redesigned introductory emergency medicine course, combining selected FOAMed resources with workplace teaching, trainee reflection and tutor support during its initial testing phase.
Free #FOAMed based courses at St.Emlyn’s. The next step in shared learning Read More
A 2015 account of preparing an emergency department for possible MERS-CoV cases, drawing on local outbreak planning. It covers specialist collaboration, isolation facilities, protective equipment, rehearsal and clear staff guidance, with explicit recognition that plans require local adaptation and review as evidence changes.
How to prepare your ED for a MERS-CoV outbreak Read More
Three UK trainees reflect on what SMACC Chicago 2015 taught them about uncertainty, reading primary research and mastering the basics. Their account connects debates about sepsis and trauma with clearer team communication, personal resilience and the work required to turn conference inspiration into learning.
#SMACCUS: A Trainee Perspective Read More
