Applying Direct Pressure and COVID-19 Respiratory Failure: Myths vs Reality

Summary

In this article, we discuss two different scenarios where medical emergencies arise. The first scenario involves a person who has been stabbed and is bleeding heavily. We explain the correct way to apply direct pressure to the wound and wait for medical help. We also criticize the way Hollywood portrays such situations. The second scenario involves COVID-19 respiratory failure, and we discuss the myths and realities surrounding it. We explain the risks of intubation and why it may not be recommended in certain cases. We also discuss the challenges of resource allocation during the pandemic and the use of respiratory support devices.

Direct Pressure: Hollywood vs Reality
COVID-19 Respiratory Failure: Myths vs Reality
Challenges of Resource Allocation During the Pandemic
Respiratory Support Devices and ECMO
The Importance of Proper Sedation and Paralysis
Conclusion

Direct Pressure: Hollywood vs Reality

In the first scenario, a person has been stabbed and is bleeding heavily. We explain that the correct way to apply direct pressure to the wound is to use a clean cloth or towel and press down firmly. We advise waiting for medical help to arrive and not removing the cloth, as it may cause the wound to start bleeding again. We also criticize the way Hollywood portrays such situations, as it often shows people panicking and not taking the correct steps to help the victim.

COVID-19 Respiratory Failure: Myths vs Reality

In the second scenario, we discuss COVID-19 respiratory failure and the myths and realities surrounding it. We explain that medical shows often portray intubation as a simple and effective solution, but in reality, it is a risky procedure with potential complications. We also explain what medical professionals look for in an X-ray and why intubation may not be recommended in certain cases.

Challenges of Resource Allocation During the Pandemic

We discuss the challenges of resource allocation during the pandemic, as medical professionals have had to make difficult decisions about who receives treatment and who does not. We explain that COVID-19 patients can be resuscitated, but chest compressions release a lot of virus, making it risky for medical professionals. We also discuss the medication regimen for intubation and the use of respiratory support devices such as nasal cannulas, masks, and BiPAP machines.

Respiratory Support Devices and ECMO

We explain the use of respiratory support devices such as nasal cannulas, masks, and BiPAP machines, and the risks and benefits associated with each. We also discuss the use of ECMO for severe respiratory failure, which involves removing blood from circulation and oxygenating it outside the body. We emphasize the importance of exhausting all options before resorting to intubation.

The Importance of Proper Sedation and Paralysis

We highlight the difficulties of performing certain procedures without proper sedation or paralysis, and why it is important to have a trained professional perform these procedures. We also explain that ECMO is a complex medical intervention that requires expertise and specialized equipment, and it is not something that can be done in an emergency room. We express concern about a patient being given a paralytic without sedative and comment on the use of non-human organs in Hollywood productions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have discussed two different scenarios where medical emergencies arise. We have emphasized the correct way to apply direct pressure to a wound and criticized the way Hollywood portrays such situations. We have also discussed the myths and realities surrounding COVID-19 respiratory failure and the challenges of resource allocation during the pandemic. We have explained the risks and benefits associated with respiratory support devices and ECMO and emphasized the importance of proper sedation and paralysis. It is important to remember that medical emergencies can happen at any time, and it is essential to be prepared and knowledgeable about the correct steps to take.