What counts as a normal respiratory or heart rate in a child? This 2015 appraisal examines emergency department centile data, compares published reference ranges and considers how rounded measurements and uneven age groups affect interpretation. It asks how confidently these observations can inform clinical assessment.
JC: Don’t Write off the Respiratory Rate – Part Two Read More
Persistent fast breathing in an otherwise well baby can be difficult to interpret. This 2015 review explores respiratory-rate measurement, clinical context and possible underlying causes, highlighting the importance of reassessment and follow-up when the initial examination or investigations do not explain the finding.
JC: Don’t Write off the Respiratory Rate – Part One Read More
An August 2015 overview of NICE’s draft major trauma guidance during its stakeholder consultation. The post summarises the proposed approach to airway care, bleeding, imaging, analgesia and communication, and explains how clinicians could comment; it records the consultation rather than the final or current guidance.
Major Trauma – Have your say on the NICE guidance for Major Trauma Read More
Taking a sexual history in the emergency department requires privacy, sensitive language and a willingness to question assumptions. Janos Baombe explores communication, confidentiality, relevant medical and social history, specialist support and follow-up, with particular attention to patients who may have experienced sexual assault.
Taking a sexual history in ED Read More
Who might benefit from emergency department thoracotomy after traumatic cardiac arrest? This 2015 appraisal examines EAST guidance on patient selection, comparing injury patterns and signs of life while questioning estimated control outcomes, bias and the difference between impressive relative risks and small absolute benefits.
JC: EAST – Let’s Be Blunt About ED Thoracotomy 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
An archived preview of the Royal College of Emergency Medicine’s September 2015 conference in Manchester, themed ‘24-Hour EM People’. It introduces the planned speakers, ultrasound workshops, simulation activities and social programme, alongside reflections on how conferences can strengthen learning and professional community.
#RCEM15: 24 HOUR EM PEOPLE Read More
