Introduction  Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning results in approximately 50,000 emergency room visits per year. Further, it is the leading cause of death due to poisoning. When CO binds to hemoglobin it causes toxicity by creating carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). CO binds hemoglobin with 200 times greater affinity than does oxygen. Therefore, CO poisoning reduces the oxygen carrying … Continue reading To Dive or not to Dive

The Case The ambulance company calls in asking your emergency department to prepare for an agitated adult female with known psychiatric history.  Depending on where you work, this may involve having security at the ready with physical restraints and your best (strongest?) nurse with Haldol and Ativan in hand, for the patient’s safety and your … Continue reading Psychogenic Polydipsia and the Case of Severe Hyponatremia

  By Dr. Colin Therriault, PGY3

  The Case He was a previously healthy child, no significant past medical history, and term birth. He was up to date on vaccinations and regularly follows up with his pediatrician. Mom states about a week ago he started developing fevers up to 102F at home with some associated coughing and runny nose. These symptoms … Continue reading Pediatric Anemia