Renal Colic & Pulmonary Embolism CT | Reducing Imaging: ACEP E-QUAL Network Podcast
Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly available across U.S. Emergency Departments and has changed the practice of medicine. However, it is coupled with potential side-effects from radiation and contrast media. Emergency Medicine is beginning to make a concerted effort to identify clinical scenarios in which CT may be unnecessary, producing outcomes research and validated clinical decision rules. Renal colic and pulmonary embolism, in particular, seem amenable to this area of investigation. The ACEP E-QUAL Network podcast, a partnership with ALiEM to promote clinical practice improvements, reviewed this topic with experts Dr. Chris Moore (Emory University) and Dr. Jeffrey Kline (Indiana University). We present highlights from their discussion with Dr. Jason Woods.
Pain management in the ED has become a balancing act. EPs must continually balance adequate pain management with the risks of opioids prescribing. As providers reach into their pain management toolbox it is always nice to have as many options as possible because one size does not fit all. Specifically for the management of acute renal colic, IV preservative-free (cardiac) lidocaine has been gaining popularity as a potential alternative when opioids are unable to get job done or are contraindicated due to co-morbidities or a history of addiction. Is it safe? Does it work?
Pediatric patients are not just little adults. Placing peripheral IVs in young patients can be challenging and comes with its own set of challenges. Presented are some basic and advanced tips to maximize success in establishing peripheral IV access in pediatric patients using ultrasonography.
Welcome to another ultrasound-based case, part of the “Ultrasound For The Win!” (
Patients presenting to the ED with respiratory distress and a tracheostomy can unnerve almost any provider, and management is often fraught with preventable errors.