In this festive discussion, the hosts explore innovative surgical techniques for treating hemorrhagic strokes, including minimally invasive methods. They tackle the pressing issues of acute pain management in emergency settings, stressing the importance of a pain-vigilant culture and effective communication among healthcare professionals. The revival of the BestBETS project aims to enhance evidence-based practices in emergency medicine. Listeners are also invited to reflect on the past year while looking forward to 2025 and upcoming conferences.
The podcast highlights a novel surgical technique for minimally invasive removal of intracerebral hemorrhages, showing promising patient outcomes.
A discussion on new best practice guidelines emphasizes the urgent need for improved acute pain management in emergency departments.
Revitalizing the BestBETS project aims to enhance evidence-based practices in emergency medicine through community participation and shared knowledge.
Deep dives
Christmas Reflections and New Beginnings
Christmas in different parts of the world creates unique experiences, from barbecues in New Zealand to cozy winter settings elsewhere. During the December 2024 episode, the hosts reflect on a year of podcasting together, expressing appreciation for their collaborative journey. The holiday season also prompts thoughts about the upcoming year, with personal resolutions and goals being discussed. The hosts emphasize the importance of sharing feedback with listeners, reinforcing their commitment to refining the podcast based on audience insights.
Emergency Medicine Conference Promotion
The upcoming Emergency Medicine Training Association Conference in Bristol, scheduled for late February, is highlighted as a valuable opportunity for professionals in the field. Attendees can expect an enhanced lineup with significantly more abstracts submitted compared to previous years, indicating a wealth of expertise to be shared. The importance of ongoing education and networking within the emergency medicine community is underscored, reminding healthcare providers of the ever-evolving nature of medical practice. References to upcoming talks and presentations encourage participants to actively engage in learning at the event.
Innovative Techniques for Hemorrhagic Stroke
A novel surgical technique for treating hemorrhagic strokes is explored, focusing on the minimally invasive removal of intracranial clots. The podcast discusses a recent clinical trial investigating whether aspirating clots can improve patient outcomes following spontaneous intracranial hemorrhages. The trial showcased promising results, indicating improved survival rates among patients who underwent the procedure, raising awareness of a potential shift in treatment protocols. Despite the encouraging findings, concerns about the funding and methodology of the study are cautioned, suggesting a need for further research.
Management Guidelines for Acute Pain
A segment discusses new best practice guidelines for managing acute pain in emergency departments, emphasizing the need for prioritization and continuous assessment of patients' pain. The hosts challenge the prevailing belief that pain management is adequately addressed within current practices, highlighting prevalent under-treatment. By dissecting the guidelines, they stress the importance of a proactive approach, starting from patient triage through to admission or discharge. The conversation further emphasizes the necessity of enhancing pain relief techniques and fostering a 'pain vigilant' culture among healthcare staff.
Revival of the Best Bets Project
The discussion shifts to the revitalization of the Best Bets project, a rapid evidence synthesis initiative aimed at answering practical clinical questions faced by emergency medicine professionals. The hosts explain how the project had gone dormant but is now being re-energized to reinforce evidence-based practices within the field. The importance of community involvement is highlighted, inviting healthcare providers to participate and present their own clinical experiences and questions. This initiative aims to enhance shared knowledge and improve patient care through informed, evidence-based decision-making.
Cultural Sensitivity in Pain Management
The podcast examines the intersection of cultural awareness and pain management in healthcare, specifically regarding patients from diverse backgrounds. It underscores the necessity for clinicians to recognize and address inherent biases that can affect patient care, particularly regarding pain assessment and treatment. The impact of untreated pain on various patient demographics, including elderly and minority groups, is discussed as a critical factor influencing overall health outcomes. The call to action encourages healthcare professionals to critically evaluate their practices and strive for equitable pain management strategies.
Merry Christmas! This month for the December 2024 episode of the RCEM Learning Podcast, we have got a new in EM segment looking at the surgical management of haemorrhagic stroke. Becky and Chris talk gift us with a big discussion around the management of pain in the ED. Rob talks to Laura Howard and Gregory Yates about reviving the BestBETS project, before ending with New Online. If you'd like to email us, please feel free to do so here. After listening, complete a short quiz to have your time accredited for CPD at the RCEMLearning website!
(04:29) New in EM - Surgery for haemorrhagic stroke
