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The outcome of a medical malpractice case often depends on an experts opinion and how well that expert conveys that opinion to a jury. Despite the important role that experts play within the medical malpractice system, until recently, there has been little oversight of expert witness actions. With the increasing number of professional and legal actions against expert witnesses, it appears that the same experts hired to review the actions of their peers are starting to be scrutinized themselves. This months issue of the ED Legal Letter will address some of these issues that relate to the role of the expert witness.
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This article begins by reviewing the existing literature describing the epidemiology of rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in children as well as its affect on survival. The pertinent aspects of pediatric anatomy and physiology are reviewed. Finally, the various components of RSI in children including equipment, techniques, medications, and rescue devices are discussed.
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This two-part series discusses bacterial skin and soft-tissue infections. Part 1 will discuss bacterial skin infections that quite frequently are encountered in the general practice of medicine and that predominantly are benign in nature. With proper diagnosis and treatment of these entities, no major complication or long-term sequellae should be expected.
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Since 1985, the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) has provided patients with care regardless of their ability to pay. Horror stories of the dumping of indigent trauma patients prompted federal intervention and subsequent regulation to protect patients. It has been both a blessing and burden for emergency physicians.
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The death of a child is a terrifying, overwhelming experience for both parents and physicians. The unknown variables and the inability to reverse an etiology make the emergency department physician feel powerless and unable to give the parents a reason for the event. This article provides a comprehensive update for the ED physician and a review of the truths and myths about the condition known as SIDS.