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- New
- Research Article
- 10.1097/pec.0000000000003529
- Dec 8, 2025
- Pediatric emergency care
- Rana Swed Tobia + 6 more
Intussusception is a medical emergency requiring reduction with a pneumatic or hydrostatic enema. Although evidence supports the safety of medications to reduce distress during the procedure, their use remains limited. This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to provide analgesic and anxiolytic medications to all eligible patients undergoing pneumatic reduction within 1 year. A multidisciplinary team developed a standardized clinical pathway to provide both intranasal fentanyl and midazolam for all patients undergoing intussusception reduction. The interventions included staff education, team engagement, and process interventions through sequential Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. The primary outcome measure was pathway provision. Process measures included documentation of pain and sedation scores, while balancing measures assessed adverse events, failed reductions, and perforation rates. Over the project period, 25 patients were diagnosed with intussusception. Two patients with lead points proceeded directly to surgery. Among the 23 patients with planned pneumatic reduction, 19 (82%) had successful reductions, 2 had spontaneous reductions, and 2 required surgical intervention due to failed reductions. Pathway provision improved from 0% at baseline to 100% by the project's end. Pain score documentation reached 100%. No cases of serious adverse events or intestinal perforation were reported. Pathway compliance remained at 100% during the sustainment period. The interval number of days between patients who did not receive analgesia and anxiolysis was short initially but progressively lengthened. This QI initiative improved rates of analgesic and anxiolytic provision to reduce distress in patients undergoing intussusception reduction, without adverse outcomes. This project highlights the effectiveness of structured interventions in optimizing pediatric procedural pain management and potentially serves as a model for spread to other pediatric emergency departments.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1371/journal.pntd.0013789
- Dec 4, 2025
- PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases
- Thiago Almeida + 12 more
BackgroundSnakebite envenomings (SBE) are an important and neglected health issue due to their frequency and potential for severe clinical outcomes. Envenomations can cause local and systemic complications, depending on the snake species, amount of venom injected, comorbidities, timing and use of antivenom, and access to health care. Systemic effects may be fatal or lead to permanent sequelae, including strokes resulting from venom-induced vascular and tissue damage. The objective of this study is to investigate the main clinical and epidemiological characteristics of individuals who developed stroke following SBE and to identify predictors of death.Methodology/principal findingsWe conducted a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis using a predefined search strategy across MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases, following PRISMA guidelines. A total of 100 studies were included, predominantly case reports and case series, comprising 130 individuals with stroke following SBE. Most patients were male (62.3%) and aged between 40 and 59 years (37.7%). Viperids caused 96.4% of the snakebites, particularly Daboia russelii and Bothrops spp. Most patients (90%) received antivenom therapy. Reported cases of snakebite-related stroke originated from 22 countries, mostly from India (36.9%), Brazil (13.9%) and Sri Lanka (10.8%). Ischemic strokes were more common than hemorrhagic strokes (61.5% vs. 38.5%), and multifocal brain involvement was predominant in both stroke types. Overall case-fatality was 23.4%. Sepsis [OR=6.21 (1.35-33.47); P = 0.001] and thrombocytopenia [OR=3.97 (1.66-10.03); P = 0.02] were predictors of deaths. Hemorrhagic stroke [OR=2.67 (1.15-6.31); P = 0.02], multiple brain lesions in a single hemisphere [OR=7.57 (2.33-33.39); P < 0.001], and subarachnoid hemorrhage [OR=7.00 (1.87-29.4)); P = 0.001] significantly increased the risk of death. Motor sequelae remained the most common long-term outcome (22.4%), occurring significantly more often in ischemic stroke survivors (28.8% vs. 9.4%, P = 0.05). Autopsy findings revealed intense brain alterations generally in parallel with damage in other organs such as the kidneys, lung, and heart.Conclusions/significanceStrokes from SBE represent a potential medical emergency in low- and middle-income countries where snakebites predominate, and lead to high rates of mortality and long-term disability. Recognizing stroke as a disabling and underreported consequence of snakebite is essential for improving clinical outcomes and guiding public health responses. Integrating the knowledge on predictors of death from SBE-relate strokes into health policies will be vital for reducing long-term morbidity and advancing disability-inclusive strategies.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.jemermed.2025.04.010
- Dec 1, 2025
- The Journal of emergency medicine
- Octávio M Pontes-Neto + 11 more
Latin America Multidisciplinary Consensus Panel on Management of Severe Bleeding in the Anticoagulated Patient.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.ienj.2025.101686
- Dec 1, 2025
- International emergency nursing
- Andreas Protopapas + 6 more
When do emergencies happen? Exploring circadian, weekly, and seasonal trends in ambulance calls in Cyprus.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.30574/ijsra.2025.17.2.3074
- Nov 30, 2025
- International Journal of Science and Research Archive
- Mamouni Alaoui Youness + 4 more
Background: Burn injuries are complex medical emergencies that go beyond physical trauma to include significant psychological effects. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors linked to anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in severely burned patients treated at the Burn Unit of the Military Hospital Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco. Methods: A descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to August 2025 with 80 adult patients who had major burns (>20% of total body surface area). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and the WHOQOL-BREF were administered along with a sociodemographic and clinical survey. Statistical analysis was performed using JAMOVI software. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from all participants. Results: The average age was 36 years (range 17–65), with a male majority (70%). Most patients were married (81%), of middle socioeconomic status (66%), and residing in urban areas (72%). Anxiety was found in 43% of cases, and depressive symptoms in 43.2%. According to PHQ-9, 56.8% had minimal depression, 30.9% mild, and 12.3% moderate to severe. Quality of life was notably reduced in the physical (58%), social (33%), and psychological (25%) domains. Depression showed significant correlations with marital status (p=0.021), socioeconomic level (p=0.007), and ICU stay (p=0.014), while anxiety was associated with low income (p=0.034) and urban residence (p=0.004). Conclusion: Psychological distress after burn trauma is highly common and strongly linked to decreased quality of life. Routine psychiatric screening and psychological support are crucial parts of burn care, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary rehabilitation programs.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3238/arztebl.m2025.0158
- Nov 28, 2025
- Deutsches Arzteblatt international
- Alexa Fries + 5 more
Stimulants are the most commonly used illegal drugs in Germany, with a lifetime prevalence of 1.2-6.1%. In Germany, cocaine and amphetamines are the most commonly used illegal stimulants. Their use is on the rise and associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and crime. We present an overview of the management of stimulant-related disorders. This review is based on publications retrieved from a selective search in scientific databases and AI-supported platforms, with consideration of pertinent guidelines, reviews, meta-analyses, and original papers. Even in younger persons, stimulant use increases the risk of medical and neurological emergencies such as rhabdomyolysis (for amphetamines: 30.5%, 95% confidence interval [22.6; 38.5]) and stroke (for amphetamines: OR: 4.95 [3.24; 7.55]; for cocaine: OR: 2.33 [1.74; 3.11]). Stimulant intoxication manifests itself with agitation, aggression, or psychotic symptoms. There can also be long-term psychosis, depression, and cognitive impairment. Symptomatic acute treatment may be needed for dehydration, hyperthermia, and agitated states. Agitated patients need de-escalating communication and stimulus shielding and can be adequately treated with benzodiazepines or antipsychotic drugs in 70-90% of cases. The standard treatment for stimulant dependence is withdrawal treatment for several weeks, followed by rehabilitation therapy for several months. No type of pharmacotherapy has yet been approved for this. Cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and exercise have been found to stabilize abstinence. Stimulant-related emergencies pose a therapeutic challenge because of their varied and unpredictable course and the limited available evidence on abstinence-maintaining treatment. Symptom-oriented treatment in acute situations, supplemented by a multimodal treatment strategy to promote abstinence, is recommended.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/jpm15120573
- Nov 28, 2025
- Journal of Personalized Medicine
- Hadi Khaled Abou Zeid + 6 more
Background: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a common medical emergency associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Many patients undergo early endoscopy despite the absence of active bleeding. PillSense is a novel Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared ingestible capsule that rapidly detects the presence of blood in the upper GI tract and may optimize triage decisions. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study evaluating the impact of PillSense on the management of suspected UGIB in an academic center. The primary outcome was the association between capsule results and clinical decision-making, including endoscopy deferral, prioritization, outpatient scheduling, and airway protection. Secondary outcomes included transfusion requirements, time-to-endoscopy, endoscopic intervention, and 30-day adverse events. Results: A total of 28 patients (mean age 64.4 ± 17.9 years, 82.7% male) were included. Compared with negative results, positive results were associated with higher transfusion requirements (median 3 (IQR 3–6) vs. 2 (IQR 1–3.25) units; p = 0.041) and shorter time-to-endoscopy (median 0.2 (IQR 0.01–1) vs. 2 (IQR 1–15.5) days; p = 0.017). In high-risk for sedated endoscopy patients, negative results were associated with EGD deferral in 53.8%, with no subsequent adverse events within 30 days. Endoscopic intervention was performed in 62.5% of positive-result patients versus 9.5% of negative-result patients. Conclusions: The PillSense results were associated with differences in triage and management of high-risk patients with suspected UGIB. Its rapid, accurate, and non-invasive results may reduce unnecessary urgent endoscopy procedures, improve resource utilization, and enhance patient safety, particularly in the highest-risk populations.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.4081/reumatismo.2025.2152
- Nov 26, 2025
- Reumatismo
- Società Italiana Di Reumatologia
Background. DRESS syndrome is a serious delayed drug hypersensitivity reaction and it’s a medical emergency that requires rapid recognition and treatment. Symptoms do not always occur immediately after drug administration, and this latency can make diagnosis difficult and delay identification of the causative drug. Corticosteroids are the first-line therapy. Endovenous immuniglobulines can be used in combination with corticosteroids, and cyclosporine is considered a second-line therapy for patients unresponsive to steroids. Biologics, such as anti-IL-5 agents, should be considered in refractory cases. Materials and Methods. Retrospective data collection from the medical records. Results. A 50-year-old Caucasian patient was admitted on June 26th 2024, for pleuropericarditis, fever, and skin rash. He underwent treatment with indomethacin and colchicine, with initial benefit. On July 7th, dyspnea on exertion, increased pleural effusion, and worsening skin rash occurred, so oxygen therapy and antihistaminic treatment were started. Subsequently, pitting edema was observed in all four limbs, and the first evidence of hypereosinophilia (>13,000/mm3) was detected at the blood test on July 8th. Indomethacin and colchicine were discontinued due to suspected adverse reactions. In the suspicion of EGPA (eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyagitiis) the following were requested: skin biopsy (eosinophilic infiltrate without signs of vasculitis ENT, pulmonary, hematological (excluding organ involvements), and nephrological evaluations (no signs of glomerular disease). In the meantime, therapy with methylprednisolone 60 mg/day was started with subsequent reduction of the eosinophil count and stabilization of the pulmonary involvement, but worsening of renal function (creatinine 4.7 mg/dl), reduction of the platelet count (26,000/mm3), haptoglobin consumption, increased transaminases, reduction of C3 and C4, negativity of ANCA (Antineutrophil Cytoplasmatic Antibodies) PR3 (proteinase 3) and MPO (myeloproxidase) and increase of the hemolysis indices with schistocytes. In the suspicion of Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome he was treated with a cycle of plasmapheresis and Eculizumab. During hospitalization the patients began to complain about paresthesias with EMG documentation of polyneuropathy in the 4 limbs. Due to worsening of the respiratory symptoms, he underwent orotracheal intubation (26/07) and then tracheostomy. Subsequently, progressive improvement of the respiratory function was observed, with consequent removal of the tracheocannula, but worsening of the polyneuropathy and onset of bilateral ocular ischemic angiopathy. A diagnosis of DRESS was made, endovenous immunoglobulin therapy was initiated, and steroids were continued. Given the renal status and the concomitant infection (Pseudomonas in the respiratory material) treatment with mepolizumab 300 mg per month (for a total of 4 doses) was initiated over cyclosporine, with subsequent resolution of the DRESS. Conclusions. Mepolizumab shew effectiveness in a case of refractory DRESS and may represent a valid alternative for the treatment of forms refractory to steroid and immunosuppressive therapy.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.4269/ajtmh.25-0443
- Nov 25, 2025
- The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
- Pan Pan Lu + 3 more
In the present article, two cases of envenomation by Rhabdophis subminiatus are reported, including a detailed analysis of the toxicological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and therapeutic management, along with a systematic review of globally reported cases of Rhabdophis subminiatus envenomation. Both patients (both male, aged 58 years and 55 years, respectively) sought medical treatment several days after being bitten on the hand and developed life-threatening consumptive coagulopathy and hemorrhagic diathesis. The 58-year-old patient (Case 1) presented with local swelling, pain, abdominal hematoma, and shortness of breath. After treatment with antivenom, transfusion of packed red blood cells, fresh-frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate, and mechanical ventilation, his coagulation function returned to nearly normal levels. He was discharged 15 days after admission to the study hospital. The 55-year-old patient (Case 2) presented with oral bleeding and swelling distal to the bite site. After treatment with antivenom and transfusion of fibrinogen concentrate, packed red blood cells, and fresh-frozen plasma, his coagulation function returned to normal. He was discharged 11 days after admission to the study hospital. A literature review revealed more than 50 reported cases worldwide, all of which highlighted hemorrhagic syndrome and profound coagulopathy as hallmark features. Most cases were managed symptomatically, with only a minority receiving antivenom. Although the overall prognosis was generally favorable, the case fatality rate reached 12.7%. Envenomation by Rhabdophis subminiatus constitutes a significant medical emergency that requires early intervention with polyvalent antivenom (such as anti- Agkistrodon / Deinagkistrodon antivenom) combined with targeted supportive therapy to optimize clinical outcomes.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/ecm2040056
- Nov 25, 2025
- Emergency Care and Medicine
- Beau Elshout + 4 more
Background: D-dimers are frequently elevated in older Emergency Department (ED) patients and often lead to diagnostic dilemmas as specific underlying causes remain unclear. We aimed to investigate the association of elevated D-dimer levels with serious diseases with special focus on occult malignancy in the following 6 months. Methods: In this Dutch prospective cohort study in older (≥65 years) medical ED patients, D-dimer levels were routinely measured upon ED arrival but blinded to clinicians. Associations with serious medical conditions were evaluated using Cox regression, in a real-life clinical context. Results: Among 407 patients (median age 79 years), 69.8% had elevated age-adjusted D-dimers (AADD). Sepsis, ischemia, and venous thromboembolism (VTE) were all associated with AADD, although VTE was present in only 4.2% of patients. In 336 patients without active malignancy, occult malignancy was diagnosed in 9.2% within 6 months, with a time to diagnosis of 5 days. D-dimer levels ≥2000 µg/L predicted occult malignancy (HR of 2.61) and interval likelihood ratios (LRs) increased with higher D-dimer levels (highest LR 2.88). Low D-dimers (<500 µg/L) had very low LR 0.21. Conclusions: Older ED patients frequently have elevated D-dimer levels, and these levels are often associated with non-thrombotic conditions including sepsis, ischemia, and occult malignancy. While elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of occult malignancy, the absolute risk increment is modest. Consequently, routine screening for occult malignancy solely based on D-dimers is not recommended, as most malignancies were diagnosed within a short timeframe. Interestingly, occult malignancy is extremely unlikely in patients with low D-dimer levels.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.3390/ctn9040054
- Nov 24, 2025
- Clinical and Translational Neuroscience
- Anas Zaman + 6 more
Background: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) represents a growing cause of medical emergencies globally. Objective: This study evaluates whether healthcare outcomes for TBI patients differ between daytime and on-call (after-hours) admissions. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted using data from a hospital database spanning January 2015 to December 2019. Of the 670 cases reviewed, 45 patients over the age of 65 were admitted with head trauma. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: Surgical interventions were significantly less frequent during on-call hours. Admission type (elective vs. emergent) showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Postoperative ICU length of stay (LOS) was markedly longer for on-call admissions (p = 0.002). Due to a controlled sample size, p-value interpretations would need some discretion. TBI patients admitted during on-call hours had a 9.9-fold increase in ICU stay, a 2.5-fold increase in total hospital LOS, and a 475% higher complication rate compared to daytime admissions. Complication rates were 20% for daytime admissions versus 92% for on-call admissions. Furthermore, patients treated during on-call hours were 11 times more likely to be discharged in an unconscious state (GCS < 8). Conclusions: TBI outcomes are significantly worse during on-call hours. Enhancing imaging availability and staffing during these periods may help improve patient outcomes.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.whi.2025.10.003
- Nov 20, 2025
- Women's health issues : official publication of the Jacobs Institute of Women's Health
- Lauren Thaxton + 5 more
Texas' Abortion Ban Conflicts With Person-Centered Health Care: Experiences of Texans With Medically Complex Pregnancies.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.69667/rmj.25412
- Nov 18, 2025
- Razi Medical Journal
A stroke significantly affects both individuals and their communities. Understanding the epidemiology and occurrence of strokes within a community can enhance awareness and guide treatment strategies to reduce their immediate and long-lasting effects. Our objective is to identify the epidemiological factors and accompanying comorbid conditions linked to stroke among patients visiting the Emergency Department at Misrata Medical Centre MED. This is a hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional design study that includes patients of any sex presenting with an acute cerebral vascular accident (CVA) at the medical emergency department (MED) at Misrata Medical Center (MMC) during the period from January 1, 2019, to December 31, 2020. All medical records with a diagnosis of stroke were identified based on the definitions provided by the International Classification of Diseases. Among 837 stroke patients seen at Misurata MED (2019–2020), 440 had acute strokes and 397 had old strokes, with an average annual incidence of 461.95 per 100,000 MED patients and 33.14 per 100,000 city population. Males accounted for 61.05% of cases (p < 0.0001). Stroke incidence peaked at age 70–79 (22.6%) and showed a significant age-sex association (p < 0.0001). Polynomial regression (R² ≈ 0.878) indicated a strong non-linear relationship with age. Ischemic strokes dominated (90.45%). Risk factors were present in 76% of cases; hypertension was most common (59.1%), often combined with diabetes (25.9%). Stroke risk was significantly higher in patients with multiple risk factors (p < 0.0001), and hypertension increased stroke risk by 3.5 times compared to other risk profiles. Stroke incidence at Misrata Medical Centre is notably high, particularly among older males, with ischemic stroke being the predominant type. The findings highlight hypertension and diabetes as the most prevalent and impactful risk factors, especially when combined. The significant association between multiple risk factors and increased stroke likelihood underscores the urgent need for targeted prevention, early screening, and comprehensive management strategies, particularly in high-risk populations. These insights can guide local health policies to reduce stroke burden and improve patient outcomes.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.1016/j.cca.2025.120730
- Nov 16, 2025
- Clinica chimica acta; international journal of clinical chemistry
- Alan H B Wu + 1 more
Clinical laboratory testing of blood from patients presenting to the emergency department with acute bleeding due to factor Xa inhibitors: An unmet medical need.
- New
- Research Article
- 10.69849/revistaft/ni10202511161352
- Nov 16, 2025
- Revista ft
- Emanuell Da Costa Alves Silva + 2 more
Medical emergencies occur in dentistry and can have consequences for the patient's health, requiring the dentist's intervention. Metabolic changes, such as hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, are the most common in individuals with diabetes mellitus and other health conditions. The consequences can lead to serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic syndrome, both of which require early diagnosis and immediate intervention. Therefore, care for these patients should include careful monitoring of glucose levels, fluid replacement, insulin administration, and electrolyte correction as appropriate for the condition. However, to be prepared for such an emergency, professionals must always stay up-to-date and ensure that procedures are performed before, during, and after treatment, thus maintaining a high level of patient safety.
- Research Article
- 10.1186/s12866-025-04401-w
- Nov 10, 2025
- BMC Microbiology
- Nidhi Tejan + 7 more
BackgroundBloodstream infections (BSI) related mortality rates are increasing worldwide making it a medical emergency. This study has evaluated a new method for direct detection of pathogens and to perform direct antimicrobial susceptibility testing from the positive flagged blood culture. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics is the utmost need.MethodA 30-minute protocol for pellet formation was developed using the positive blood culture bottle broth by triton X, SDS and saponin method for direct identification of pathogens. Clinical blood culture samples from patients, positive for Gram-negative bacteria, were included in the study (160 for direct identification and 250 for direct antimicrobial susceptibility testing). We compared results with routine method.ResultsThe agreement of Triton X, SDS and saponin direct identification method compared to the conventional method was 96.2%, 91.8% and 90% respectively. A total of 960 pathogen and antimicrobial agent combinations were tested, 99.8% antimicrobial sensitivity testing results by direct method showed categorical agreement with the standard routine disc diffusion method.ConclusionOverall, the newer method of direct microbial identification and antibiotic sensitivity testing is both time and cost effective.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12866-025-04401-w.
- Research Article
- 10.58806/ijhmr.2025.v4i11n02
- Nov 7, 2025
- International Journal of Health & Medical Research
- Firdaus Indah Sari + 1 more
Introduction: The high demand for healthcare services often causes hospitals, particularly emergency departments (EDs), to face problems such as poor service quality and long waiting times, resulting in patient congestion and prolonged Emergency Department Length of Stay (EDLOS). This study aims to analyze the factors that influence EDLOS. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional approach was used to analyze the input factors (infrastructure, hospital regulations, human resources, and patients) that influence Emergency Department Length of Stay (EDLOS). A purposive sampling technique (150) was used with a binary logistic regression test. Results: Infrastructure had a significant influence on EDLOS (p-value = 0.001). Hospital regulations and policies had a significant influence on EDLOS (p-value = 0.001). Human resources also significantly influenced EDLOS (p-value = 0.001). Meanwhile, patient age and condition did not substantially influence EDLOS (p-value = 0.182). An EDLOS of <6 hours (64.7%) indicates that most patients received relatively prompt care. However, 35.3% of patients still experienced an EDLOS of ≥6 hours, suggesting areas for improvement in ED service efficiency. Conclusion: Factors significantly influencing EDLOS include medical facility infrastructure, such as the speed of bed availability upon admission, the layout of treatment areas, particularly the arrangement of ED medical equipment, and administrative facilities related to patient comfort. Hospital policies and regulations have a significant influence on EDLOS. Some respondents reported that transfers from the ED to other units were hindered by the need to wait for an inpatient room to become available. Human resources significantly influence EDLOS, including improving communication to ensure that patients’ families understand medical emergencies. Age was not shown to influence patient length of stay in the ED. Although the majority of patients were in the yellow triage category, there was no significant effect on ED length of stay based on the triage category applied.
- Research Article
- 10.1177/10806032251389927
- Nov 6, 2025
- Wilderness & environmental medicine
- Martina Longobardi + 8 more
IntroductionTraumatic injuries and medical emergencies are common in skiing and snowboarding, often occurring in remote alpine areas where ski patrols provide only basic trauma care. This pilot study, conducted at the Livigno Carosello 3000 Ski Area in Northern Italy, evaluated the impact of adding a healthcare-enhanced ski patrol team that included a critical care nurse and an on-call medical consultant.MethodsA retrospective observational study compared rescue operations across 2 ski seasons: 2022-23 (basic team only) and 2023-24 (basic and enhanced team). Data were collected from all rescue operations conducted from Sundays to Thursdays, excluding logistical transports and refusals. Patient characteristics, injuries, treatments, evacuation methods, and dispositions were analyzed by season and by team composition.ResultsAmong 595 cases (281 in Season 1, 314 in Season 2), the enhanced team managed 61% of rescues in Season 2 and handled significantly more medical emergencies (P<0.01). The enhanced team administered pharmacologic therapy in 27% of cases and applied spinal motion restriction more often (12 vs 2%; P<0.01). Their involvement also was associated with increased snowmobile evacuations (62 vs 49%; P<0.01) and decreased referrals to trauma clinics (48 vs 60%; P<0.01), alongside more on-site discharges and private transports (11 vs 5%; P<0.01).ConclusionsAdding healthcare professionals to ski patrol teams improved case management, enabled prompt treatment, and optimized evacuation strategies. These findings support integrating clinical expertise into ski patrol operations and warrant further study of long-term impacts on system efficiency and patient outcomes.
- Research Article
- 10.56226/106
- Nov 6, 2025
- International Healthcare Review (online)
- Jair Brito Do Nascimento + 4 more
Introduction: Using chatbots and artificial intelligence (AI) systems in pre-hospital care has transformed patient triage, initial support and emergency logistics. These technologies offer speed and effectiveness in critical situations and are promising tools for improving health outcomes. Methods: This study was based on a literature review in PubMed, Scopus and IEEE Xplore databases, between 2015 and 2023. Articles that explored the use of chatbots and AI in emergency triage, first aid and logistics management were selected. Qualitative analysis synthesized the practical and theoretical contributions of these systems. Results: Chatbots and AI have proven effective in automated triage, reducing response times and improving diagnostic accuracy in medical emergencies. AI systems have optimized ambulance logistics and resources, while chatbots have provided practical guidance on first aid, such as CPR. However, challenges such as unequal access to technology, cultural resistance, and ethical issues related to privacy have been identified. Discussion: These technologies have a positive impact on pre-hospital care by providing rapid and effective support, especially in remote areas. However, technological and ethical barriers limit their adoption. Cultural acceptance and user trust, combined with appropriate regulations and training, are essential to overcome these obstacles. More accessible and integrated systems represent a promising prospect. Conclusion: Chatbots and AI are revolutionizing emergency care, offering accuracy, speed, and accessibility. While challenges remain, coordinated efforts in research, infrastructure, and regulation can ensure their ethical and efficient implementation, enhancing their ability to save lives and transform pre-hospital care.
- Research Article
- 10.2196/69103
- Nov 5, 2025
- JMIR Formative Research
- Jasmina Sterz + 14 more
BackgroundCardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is vital for improving patient outcomes in medical emergencies. Both laypersons and health care professionals often seek guidance on performing CPR. In today’s digital age, many turn to easily accessible platforms such as YouTube for practical skills.ObjectiveThis study evaluates the didactic and content quality of CPR videos on YouTube using comprehensive checklists and investigates the association between the assigned quality scores and type of publisher, view count, and video rankings.MethodsVideos were included based on defined search terms and exclusion criteria. Two emergency physicians rated each video independently using validated checklists concerning content and didactic quality. Linear regression analysis was performed to assess the relationships between video quality scores and view counts, as well as video rankings.ResultsOf the 250 videos identified, 74 (29.6%) met the inclusion criteria. On the content checklist, videos scored an average of 56.5% (SD 19.2%), and on the didactic checklist, they scored 66.6% (SD 14.3%); none achieved the maximum score. Videos from official medical institutions scored significantly higher in content quality compared to nonofficial sources (P=.04). Video quality scores were not associated with video rankings or view counts.ConclusionsThe study highlights substantial variability in the didactic and content quality of CPR-related videos on YouTube. For medical educators, this underlines the need to curate and recommend reliable online resources or to develop new high-quality content aligned with established checklists. For the general public, the findings caution against relying on popularity metrics as indicators of accuracy and emphasize the importance of guidance from trusted institutions.