Rural Emergency Medicine Podcast

This is a discussion with a toxicologist about a case of serotonin syndrome.

Dr. Kenneth Bernard, an emergency physician on a Native American reservation in Arizona, shares insights on the critical challenges in rural emergency medicine. He highlights the First Annual Native America and Rural Emergency Medicine Conference, aimed at addressing the unique needs of these communities. The conversation dives deep into necrotizing fasciitis, revealing the complexities of diagnosis and the importance of bedside examination techniques. Bernard underscores the significance of building trust within underserved populations and the role of collaboration in improving healthcare outcomes.

The discussion centers on effectively managing pediatric head injuries in rural settings while providing emotional support to anxious parents. It highlights a substantial study of over 40,000 children, showcasing the standardized CT scan decision rules. The podcast emphasizes using algorithms for deciding when a CT scan is necessary and the importance of clear communication with parents. Observing symptoms, especially in children under two, is crucial, alongside the application of the PCARN guidelines to balance effective care with minimized unnecessary imaging.

This is a discussion on current treatment recommendations for alcohol withdrawal syndromes.

Dr. Craig Heacock, a psychiatrist, sheds light on using ketamine as a breakthrough treatment for patients facing severe depression and suicidal thoughts. He discusses the accessibility challenges in rural emergency settings and the rapid effectiveness of ketamine compared to traditional methods. The conversation covers the significance of dosing, patient suitability, and potential psychological impacts. Dr. Heacock emphasizes ketamine's promise in transforming care for those in crisis, highlighting the need for monitoring and follow-up to ensure patient safety.

We interview Scott Phillips, a board certified toxicologist. He discusses how to approach the toxicology patient and discusses an overdose case. 

Craig Hecock, a clinical psychiatrist from Fort Collins, Colorado, delves into crucial psychiatric emergencies in rural settings. He discusses the alarming rise in suicide rates, particularly the effects of firearm access among vulnerable populations. The conversation highlights the importance of family involvement in assessments and ethical challenges in caring for suicidal patients. Hecock also shares insights on transforming patient care through empathy and the potential future use of ketamine for treating depression in emergency contexts.

Tadd Ferguson, a physician at a tertiary care center, shares invaluable insights on patient transfers from smaller hospitals. He stresses the need for clear communication and thorough documentation to ensure better patient outcomes. Tadd discusses the importance of concise medical records and the challenges faced in electronic documentation. He also highlights the benefits of having a checklist during transfers, aiming to enhance care coordination. With real-life experiences, he navigates the complexities and liability concerns tied to patient transfers.

Dive into the challenges of managing multiple critical patients in rural settings with limited resources. Explore real-life scenarios highlighting teamwork and quick decision-making during emergencies. Discover insights from upcoming interviews with specialists and the importance of continuing medical education. Learn about a dramatic cardiac arrest incident and the complexities of navigating code blue situations in hospitals, emphasizing effective communication and resource management for optimal patient outcomes.

Explore the intricacies of patient transport in rural healthcare, where adverse weather and limited resources complicate emergency responses. Hear about challenging cases, like a 72-year-old with chest pain and a young girl battling severe lupus, emphasizing the importance of communication and documentation. Discover insights into handling complex conditions like STEMI and acute kidney injury. Each story highlights the need for teamwork and critical thinking in urgent medical situations, showcasing the unique challenges faced by rural emergency services.