Handling Abdominal Stab Wounds and Hemorrhagic Shock

Summary

When handling a patient with an abdominal stab wound, it is important to apply direct pressure to the wound and find a second person for help. Hemorrhagic shock is a common reaction to such wounds, and patients may experience rapid pulse, low blood pressure, and pale, cool, clammy skin. It is important to note that hemorrhagic shock is not accurately portrayed in Hollywood and can be fatal if not handled properly.

COVID-19 Respiratory Pandemic and Medical Shows

Summary

Medical shows have covered COVID-19, but some portrayals may be inaccurate. For example, one show portrayed a patient’s X-ray in a way that did not reflect the reality of the disease. COVID-19 causes both hypoxemic and hyperkerbic respiratory failure, and intubation carries risks. It is important to wait before making such a decision and to use various respiratory support methods before resorting to intubation. These methods include nasal cannulas, masks, and BiPAP.

ECMO and Creative Thinking

Summary

ECMO is a method used for severe respiratory failure where blood is oxygenated outside the body. However, it is a complex medical intervention that requires expertise and cannot be done in an ER. During a ventilator shortage, creative thinking is necessary to provide patients with the respiratory support they need. ECMO is not a solution for this problem, but other methods such as nasal cannulas, masks, and BiPAP can be used.

Medical Scenarios and Evaluation

Summary

In some medical scenarios, patients may be given a paralytic without sedative, which can be dangerous. Additionally, the use of black market organs in Hollywood is not a reflection of reality. In the case of a patient with severe hypothermia who was found in the trunk of a car and may have been in ketosis, it is important to provide the patient with proper medical care. Finally, in the case of a leg laceration, it is important to apply pressure and clean the wound to prevent infection.