REBEL Cast Salim R. Rezaie, MD

Background:  Some of the feared complications of endotracheal intubation include hypotension, cardiac arrest, and death (cardiovascular collapse).  These complications can result from numerous causes including medication-induced vasodilation and decreased venous return to the heart due to increased intrathoracic pressure from positive pressure ventilation. In recent years there has been an increased focus on resuscitation prior ... Read more

Background: Hypoxemia is a commonly encountered adverse event during rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in the ED.  Critically ill patients in the ED often have a lack of physiologic reserve, decreased cardiac output, increased shunting, and reduced pulmonary reserves.  Therefore, a strategy that safely avoids desaturation and prolongs safe apnea times would be beneficial. There are ... Read more

REBEL Core Cast 86.0 – Hand Nerve Blocks Click here for Direct Download of the Podcast References: Core Ultrasound: Median Nerve Block Core Ultrasound: Radial Nerve Block Core Ultrasound: Ulnar Nerve Block Post Peer Reviewed By: Salim R. Rezaie, MD (Twitter: @srrezaie)

Take Home Points Patients with severe hypercalcemia (> 14 mg/dL) are at risk for severe cardiac dysrhythmias and cardiac collapse Treatment centers on volume repletion with normal saline with consideration for the addition of loop diuretics AFTER volume reexpansion is complete As the patient begins to diurese, continually monitor electrolytes REBEL Core Cast 87.0 – ... Read more

Take Home Points Severe hypocalcemia can cause hypotension and QTc prolongation leading to Torsades de Pointes.  Treat moderate to severe symptoms and any EKG changes with IV calcium salts Always search for and treat the underlying cause of hypocalcemia REBEL Core Cast 88.0 – Hypocalcemia Click here for Direct Download of the Podcast Definition: A ... Read more

Take Home Points Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis (SBP) is a difficult diagnosis to make because presentations are variable. Consider a diagnostic paracentesis in all patients presenting to the ED with ascites from cirrhosis An ascites PMN count > 250 cells/mm3 is diagnostic of SBP but treatment should be considered in any patient with ascites and abdominal ... Read more