Grant to Enhance EMS/Hospital Data Exchange
The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) has been awarded one of 15 Federal Beacon Grants to demonstrate the capacity of electronic medical records.
Introduction
Improvements in training and medical direction—in both prehospital and hospital systems—has allowed technology and advanced medical treatment to rapidly expand in the field, hospitals and EDs. In many instances, innovative prehospital systems and their medical directors are on the front lines leading the charge.
A.J. Heightman, MPA, EMT-P | Paul E. Pepe, MD, MPH
The Most Important Test
The 12-lead ECG is the most important initial test for diagnosing acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Changes have recently been incorporated into the Philips DXL ECG algorithm and the HeartStart MRx monitor/defibrillator that enhance the ECG’s ability to detect acute ischemia, AMI & STEMI.
Mohamud Daya, MD, MS
Regionalized Cardiac Arrest Care
FDNY created a regional protocol for initiating hypothermia on cardiac patients. This article reports initial results as well as lessons learned for EMS systems wanting to initiate similar protocols.
John Freese, MD