Reducing post-traumatic stress

Depression and post-traumatic stress are more common in women than men after critical illness, indicating the need for psychological and physical 'follow-up' to reduce the incidence of these symptoms.

Quality improvement interventions in the ICU

A multifaceted strategy improved compliance with minimization of sedation, with small improvements in compliance reducing mechanical ventilation duration; intensive care units (ICUs) should monitor their key quality processes.

Preventing delirium with earplugs

The use of earplugs in the ICU can lead to a better night's sleep for patients, lower the incidence of confusion, and delay the onset of cognitive disturbances.

Documenting in-flight medical emergencies

Analysis of documentation for in-flight medical events from 10 airlines located in the EU and United Arab Emirates revealed that extensive variation between airline reports is the cause of inadequate reporting of medical emergencies.

Chest ultrasound for influenza pneumonia diagnosis

Bedside chest ultrasonography can accurately provide early stage detection of patients with pandemic influenza A (H1N1) pneumonia even when chest radiography is normal.

Medical equipment in patient transport

Technical failure of medical utensils during inter-hospital transport can largely impact on patient health, highlighting the importance of specialist training and knowledge in the use of emergency equipment within transport teams.