The increasing demand for specialized rheumatology care has put a strain on healthcare systems globally. Patients often face long wait times, which can lead to worsening conditions and delayed treatment. Implementing triage systems for rheumatology referrals is a transformative approach that ensures patients receive timely and appropriate care. Triage not only improves wait time benchmarks …
In emergency medical care, triage is the critical process of determining which patients need immediate attention based on the severity of their conditions. However, for geriatric patients—who often present with multiple chronic conditions, or comorbidities — the decision-making process becomes more complex. This article delves into the challenges faced by healthcare providers when triaging elderly …
In emergency medical care, triage is the process of prioritizing patient treatment based on the severity of their condition. Traditionally, triage has focused on the physical aspects of patient care, such as vital signs, injuries, and illnesses. However, there is a growing understanding that psychological stress and concomitant conditions—such as anxiety, trauma, and panic—can significantly …
Many hospital deaths occur within the first 24 hours of admission. Prompt action can often prevent these tragedies, especially in the case of critically ill children. The concept of triage—the process of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition—plays a crucial role in ensuring life-saving interventions are provided without delay. Why Emergency Triage …
When your heart stops beating and you stop breathing, emergency care begins with cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This life-saving technique combines chest compressions, artificial respiration, and defibrillation to restart the heart. But what happens if CPR alone isn’t enough? Advanced interventions may be required to stabilize the situation and improve survival chances. When Basic Emergency CPR …
Falls are a leading concern among adults aged 65 and older, with one in four experiencing a fall each year. Despite our best efforts to prevent them, accidents can happen. Being prepared with an emergency plan can make a crucial difference in managing the situation effectively. Here’s how to stay ready and informed. Why You …
During emergencies, hospitals and healthcare providers use a process called triage to prioritize patients based on the severity of their conditions. Understanding how triage works can help citizens respond more effectively in crises and cooperate with healthcare professionals. Emergencies such as natural disasters, large-scale accidents, and pandemics often overwhelm healthcare systems. Triage ensures that limited …
Chest pain can be alarming for heart attack. Is it a sign of heartburn or something more serious, like a heart attack? With over eight million emergency room visits for chest pain each year, differentiating between these conditions is crucial. Let’s explore the similarities, differences, and best practices for managing these health concerns. What Is …
As a 73-year-old man with heart disease and a history of coronary bypass surgery, your vigilance about your health is commendable. Experiencing chest pain is understandably concerning, especially when paired with elevated troponin levels. Let’s unpack what elevated troponin means, its implications, and how to manage it. What Are Troponins? Troponins are proteins critical for …
Climate change is already affecting the health of people worldwide. As emergency medicine physicians practicing , we are seeing climate change-driven health emergencies more often. From extreme weather events to temperature changes, the threats to public health are escalating. This article explores how climate change impacts health and provides tips on how to prepare. How …
Chest pain is a symptom most people associate with heart attacks. Movies often dramatize this with individuals clutching their chest and collapsing. In reality, chest pain has a wide range of causes, many of which are not related to the heart. In the United States, over 6.5 million emergency room visits and nearly four million …
Triage assessment in patients with neurological disorders is crucial for providing timely, effective care. Neurological conditions, such as strokes, seizures, or infections, require specialized evaluation due to their unique characteristics and the potential for rapid deterioration. Whether a patient presents with acute symptoms like sudden weakness or difficulty speaking, or with chronic conditions that have …