acute and emergency Flashcards
presentation and conditions
Haematuria
-Microscopic or dipstick positive haematuria is increasingly termed non-visible haematuria
-Macroscopic haematuria is termed visible haematuria.
-Non-visible haematuria is found in around 2.5% of the population.
What are the causes of SPIRIOUS non-visible haematuria
-urinary tract infection
-menstruation
-vigorous exercise (this normally settles after around 3 days)
-sexual intercourse
Causes of PERSISTANT non-visible haematuria
-cancer (bladder, renal, prostate)
-stones
-benign prostatic hyperplasia
-prostatitis
-urethritis e.g. Chlamydia
-renal causes: IgA nephropathy, thin basement -membrane disease
Spurious causes - red/orange urine, where blood is not present on dipstick
-foods: beetroot, rhubarb
-drugs: rifampicin, doxorubicin
Testing for haematauria
- We do not screen for haematuria as it’s very ccommon
Investigations
- urine dipstick is the test of choice for detecting haematuria
-persistent non-visible haematuria is often defined as blood being present in 2 out of 3 samples tested 2-3 weeks apart
-renal function, albumin:creatinine (ACR) or protein:creatinine ratio (PCR) and blood pressure should also be checked
-urine microscopy may be used but time to analysis significantly affects the number of red blood cells detected
When urgent referral is needed for non-visible haematauria
Aged >= 45 years AND:
-unexplained visible haematuria without urinary tract infection, or
-visible haematuria that persists or recurs after successful treatment of urinary tract infection
Aged >= 60 years AND have unexplained nonvisible haematuria and either dysuria or a raised white cell count on a blood test
Aged >= 60 years AND have unexplained nonvisible haematuria and either dysuria or a raised white cell count on a blood test- what are the likely diagnosis
- UTI
- Bladder Cancer
- Prostatitis
- Renal Parenchymal Disease
-Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
-Kidney Stones
Differential diagnosis Aged >= 45 years AND:
-unexplained visible haematuria without urinary tract infection, or
-visible haematuria that persists or recurs after successful treatment of urinary tract infection
- Urinary Tract Stones (Nephrolithiasis or Urolithiasis)
- bladder cancer
-Exercise-Induced Hematuria:
-Renal Trauma or Injury
-Medication-Induced Hematuria
-Coagulopathy or Bleeding Disorders
-Renal Parenchymal Disease - Renal bladder stones
-UTI
Reasons for non-urgent referral when haematauria is discovered
Aged 60 >= 60 years with recurrent or persistent unexplained urinary tract infection
patients under the age of 40 years with normal renal function, no proteinuria and who are normotensive do not need to be referred and may be managed in primary care
Nephrotic syndrome and the four signs of it
- Kidney disorder where there is damage done to the glomeruli.
- ## large amounts of protein leaking into the urine.1.Proteinuria:
2.Hypoalbuminemia
- Edema.
- Hyperlipidemia
What are risk factors for suicide?
- mental health conditions
- previous suicide attempts
- family history
- stressful life hx
- access to means
- chronic illness
- males are more likely
- making efforts not to be found
Anaphylaxis
- life-threatening allergic reaction which occurs in minutes after exposure to a trigger
Symptoms
- swelling of the lips, mouth, throat and tongue
- rash on the body
- Difficulty breathing
- unconscious
typically for anaphylaxis to be diagnosed, 2/4 conditions need to be diagnosed with
Managment of anaphylaxis
ALL AGES NEED A-E MANAGEMENT
-Children weighing 15-30 kg: 0.15 mg (0.15 mL)
-Children weighing >30 kg: 0.3 mg (0.3 mL)
- Adults (0.5ml of 1:1,000 adenaline)
Antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, diphenhydramine) and corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone) may be given to help relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Nebulized bronchodilators (e.g., salbutamol) may be used for severe respiratory symptoms.
Refer to allergy clinic where 2 epi-pens and training need to be given.
Sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s response to an infection causes widespread inflammation, leading to organ dysfunction and failure.
Sepsis 6 (BUFALO)
take 3/give 3
take
- Bloods
-Urea
-Lactate
Give
- Fluids
-Oxygen
- Antibiotics
BUFALO
-Bloods
-Urea
Fluids
-Antibiotcs
-Lactate
-Oxygen
what are the symptoms of Sepsis
- Decreased Urine output
- low blood pressure
- fever
- tachycardia
- tachypnoea
- altered mental status
causes of sepsis
- UTI
- pneumonia
- abdo infections
complications of Sepsis
-ARDS
-DIC
- Multiple organ failure
- acute kidney injury
Criteria for sepsis
Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score and the quick SOFA (qSOFA) score are commonly used to assess the severity of organ dysfunction and predict outcomes in sepsis.
Neutropenic sepsis
Neutropenic sepsis, also known as febrile neutropenia, is a medical emergency characterized by the presence of fever (usually defined as a single oral temperature ≥38.3°C or a sustained temperature ≥38.0°C over 1 hour) in a patient with neutropenia.
typically occurs to patients undergoing chemotherapy or other bone marrow supression tx
Symptoms of neutropenic sepsis
-chills
-malaise
- weakness
- signs of systemic infection, such as tachycardia, hypotension, or altered mental status.
Pathogens which typically affect patients with neutropaenic sepsis
-Pseudomonas aeruginosa,
Candida species, Aspergillus species, Staphylococcus Aeurus,
Enterococcus species
Escherichia coli
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Herpes Simplex Virus
managment of neutropaenic sepsis
-Sepsis 6
- consider anti-fungals and and antivirals
granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (G-CSF) to stimulate neutrophil production
-Consultation with Hematology/Oncology Specialists
Shock
Shock is a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion, resulting in cellular hypoxia and organ dysfunction.
what are the types of shock
-Hypovolemic shock
-Cardiogenic Shock
-Distributive Shock
-Obstructive Shock
Further breakdown of distributive shock
- anaphylactic shock
-neutrogenic shock - septic shock
Managment of shock
- ABCDE response
- fluid resus
-vasopressors
-O2 managment - underlying causes
Neutropathic pain
Neuropathic pain may be defined as pain which arises following damage or disruption of the nervous system.
It is often difficult to treat and responds poorly to standard analgesi
Examples of neutropathic pain
- diabetic neuropathy
- post-herpetic neuralgia
-trigeminal neuralgia
-prolapsed intervertebral disc
First line treatment of neuropathic pain?
first-line treatment*: amitriptyline, duloxetine, gabapentin or pregabalin
What if the first-line treatment of pain does not manage the pain?
Try the other three drugs
- amitriptyline, duloxetine, gabapentin or pregabline
Drugs should be switched, not added
Rescue therapy Drug for neuropathic pain
Tramadol
When is Capsaicin used?
Localised neuropathic pain (e.g post-herpes)
Opioids
Opioids include substances like endorphins, semi-synthetic, and synthetic compounds that act on opioid receptors
G-coupled receptors for opioids
These receptors, present in the CNS, mediate the actions of opioids.
Mu (µ) Receptors:
- Brain, brainstem, and spinal cord.
- µ1-receptors: Involved in pain transmission; activation leads to analgesia
- µ2- and µ3-receptors: Found in the brainstem; their activation causes
- respiratory depression
- reduced gastrointestinal motility,
- vasodilation
- pupillary constriction in overdose.
Kappa (κ) Receptors:
Spread throughout the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord.
Associated with cognitive effects, dysphoria, hallucinations, and depressed consciousness.
Delta (δ) Receptors:
Almost exclusively in the brain and brainstem.
Potentiate µ-receptors, enhancing analgesia, respiratory depression, and dependence.
Endogenous Opioids
Include endorphins, dynorphins, and enkephalins, produced mainly in the brain and brainstem.
β-Endorphin: Targets µ-receptors, influences appetite, sexual behaviour, and pain control during exercise.
Met-enkephalin: Acts on δ-receptors, modulating the flight-or-fight response.
Dynorphin: Involved in appetite, mood, and stress regulation.
Which enzyme system is responsible for opioid metabolism?
cytochrome P450 (CYP450
Phase I metabolism of opioids
-
oxidation, reduction, and hydrolysis
Cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 —> modifying opioids to form more water-soluble metabolites.
Example: Codeine —>CYP2D6 —>morphine (more active)
Phase II of opioid metabolism
Involves conjugation reactions like glucuronidation.
Morphine is glucuronidated to morphine-3-glucuronide (inactive) and morphine-6-glucuronide (active and potent).
Genetic variability of opioid breakdown
Genetic polymorphisms in CYP450 enzymes, especially CYP2D6, can significantly affect the metabolism of certain opioids (like codeine and tramadol), leading to variability in clinical response.
Active metabolites of opioid breakdown
Some opioids have active metabolites that contribute to their analgesic effect or side effects. For example, the metabolites of morphine include both analgesic and neuroexcitatory compounds.
Renal excretion of opioids
Most opioid metabolites are excreted by the kidneys.
Renal impairment can lead to the accumulation of these metabolites, increasing the risk of toxicity, especially in opioids with active metabolites.
Palliative care prescribing
offer patients with advanced and progressive disease regular oral modified-release (MR) or oral immediate-release morphine (depending on patient preference), with oral immediate-release morphine for breakthrough pain
No co-morbidities, use 20-30mg of MR with 5mg morphine for breakthrough pain
I.e 15mg modified-release morphine tablets twice a day with 5mg of oral morphine solution as required
Side effects of morphine and side prescriptions
-constipation (laxatives)
- nausea and vomiting (antiemetic)
- respiratory depression
- drowsiness (adjust prescription if an issue)
Oral morphine is preferred to transdermal morphine prescription
Breakthrough dose calculation
- Breakthrough dose morphine is 1/6 of daily dose
- all patients who receive opioid should be given a laxative
- care should be taken with patients with chronic kidney disease
Palliative care and renal impairment prescriptions
oxycodone is preferred to morphine in palliative patients with mild-moderate renal impairment
if renal impairment is more severe, alfentanil, buprenorphine and fentanyl are preferred
Metastatic bone pain prescription
may respond to strong opioids, bisphosphonates or radiotherapy.
Studies do not support use of NSAIDS
Strong opioids have the lowest number needed to treat for relieving the pain and can provide quick relief, in contrast to radiotherapy and bisphosphonates*. All patients, however, should be considered for referral to a clinical oncologist for consideration of further treatments such as radiotherapy
How to increase opioid doses
Dose should be increased by 30-50%
Add bisphosphonates, radiotherapy and denosumab to treat metastatic bone pain.
Transient side effects of opioids
Nausea
Drowsiness
Persistent side effects of opioids
Constipation
Conversion between opioids
- Oral codeine to oral morphine- divide by 10
- Oral tramadol to oral morphine - divide by 10
Morphine to oxycodone conversion
Divide by 1.5 or 2
Oral morphine to subcutaneous morphine conversion
Divide by 2
Oral morphine to subcutaneous diamorphine
Divide by 3
Oral oxycodone to subcutaneous diamorphine
Divide by 1.5
Diagnostic criteria for AKI
Rise in creatinine of 26µmol/L or more in 48 hours OR
>= 50% rise in creatinine over 7 days OR
Fall in urine output to < 0.5ml/kg/hour for more than 6 hours in adults (8 hours in children) OR
>= 25% fall in eGFR in children / young adults in 7 days.
Stage 1 AKI criteria
Increase in creatinine to 1.5-1.9 times baseline, or
Increase in creatinine by ≥26.5 µmol/L, or
Reduction in urine output to <0.5 mL/kg/hour for ≥ 6 hours
Stage 2 AKI criteria
Increase in creatinine to 2.0 to 2.9 times baseline, or
Reduction in urine output to <0.5 mL/kg/hour for ≥12 hours
Stage 3 AKI criteria
- Increase in creatinine to ≥ 3.0 times baseline, or
- Increase in creatinine to ≥353.6 µmol/L or
- Reduction in urine output to <0.3 mL/kg/hour for ≥24 hours, or
- The initiation of kidney replacement therapy, or,
- In patients <18 years, decrease in eGFR to <35 mL/min/1.73 m2
When to refer to a nephrologist with AKIs
Renal tranplant
ITU patient with unknown cause of AKI
Vasculitis/ glomerulonephritis/ tubulointerstitial nephritis/ myeloma
AKI with no known cause
Inadequate response to treatment
Complications of AKI
Stage 3 AKI (see guideline for details)
CKD stage 4 or 5
Qualify for renal replacement hyperkalaemia / metabolic acidosis/ complications of uraemia/ fluid overload (pulmonary oedema)
What increases the risk of AKIs
Emergency surgery, ie, risk of sepsis or hypovolaemia
Intraperitoneal surgery
CKD, ie if eGFR < 60
Diabetes
Heart failure
Age >65 years
Liver disease
Use of nephrotoxic drugs
NSAIDs
aminoglycosides
ACE inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor antagonists
diuretics
Acute interstitial nephritis
Accounts to 25% of drug-induced AKis
Causes of AIN
drugs: the most common cause, particularly antibiotics
penicillin
rifampicin
NSAIDs
allopurinol
furosemide
systemic disease: SLE, sarcoidosis, and Sjogren’s syndrome
infection: Hanta virus , staphylococci
Pathophysiology of AIN
histology: marked interstitial oedema and interstitial infiltrate in the connective tissue between renal tubules
Features of AIN
fever, rash, arthralgia
eosinophilia
mild renal impairment
hypertension
Investigations for AIN
sterile pyuria
white cell casts
Anterpartum haemorrhage
Antepartum haemorrhage is defined as bleeding from the genital tract after 24 weeks pregnancy, prior to delivery of the fetus
Placental abruption
shock out of keeping with visible loss
pain constant
tender, tense uterus*
normal lie and presentation
fetal heart: absent/distressed
coagulation problems
beware pre-eclampsia, DIC, anuria
Placental praevia
shock in proportion to visible loss
no pain
uterus not tender
lie and presentation may be abnormal
fetal heart usually normal
coagulation problems rare
small bleeds before large
vaginal examination should not be performed in primary care for suspected antepartum haemorrhage - women with placenta praevia may haemorrhage
Threatened miscarriage
painless vaginal bleeding occurring before 24 weeks, but typically occurs at 6 - 9 weeks
the bleeding is often less than menstruation
cervical os is closed
complicates up to 25% of all pregnancies
Missed (delayed) miscarriage
a gestational sac which contains a dead fetus before 20 weeks without the symptoms of expulsion
mother may have light vaginal bleeding / discharge and the symptoms of pregnancy which disappear. Pain is not usually a feature
cervical os is closed
when the gestational sac is > 25 mm and no embryonic/fetal part can be seen it is sometimes described as a ‘blighted ovum’ or ‘anembryonic pregnancy’
Inevitable miscarriage
- heavy bleeding with clots and pain
Cervical os is open
Incom plete miscarriage
not all products of conception have been expelled
pain and vaginal bleeding
cervical os is open
Expectant management of miscarriage
Waiting for a spontaneous miscarriage’
First-line and involves waiting for 7-14 days for the miscarriage to complete spontaneously
If expectant management is unsuccessful then medical or surgical management may be offered
Medical or surgical management.of miscarriage risks
increased risk of haemorrhage
she is in the late first trimester
if she has coagulopathies or is unable to have a blood transfusion
previous adverse and/or traumatic experience associated with pregnancy (for example, stillbirth, miscarriage or antepartum haemorrhage)
evidence of infection
Medical management of missed miscarriage
oral mifepristone.
48 hours later, misoprostol
If bleeding has not started within 48 hours after misoprostol treatment, they should contact their healthcare professional
Incomplete miscarriage
a single dose of misoprostol (vaginal, oral or sublingual)
Management of all miscarriages
women should be offered antiemetics and pain relief
a pregnancy test should be performed at 3 weeks
Surgical management of miscarriage
Undergoing a surgical procedure under local or general anaesthetic’
The two main options are vacuum aspiration (suction curettage) or surgical management in theatre
Vacuum aspiration is done under local anaesthetic as an outpatient
Causes of recurrent miscarriages
antiphospholipid syndrome
endocrine disorders: poorly controlled diabetes mellitus/thyroid disorders. Polycystic ovarian syndrome
uterine abnormality: e.g. uterine septum
parental chromosomal abnormalities
smoking
Immediate first aid for burns
airway, breathing, circulation
burns caused by heat: remove the person from the source. Within 20 minutes of the injury irrigate the burn with cool (not iced) water for between 10 and 30 minutes. Cover the burn using cling film, layered, rather than wrapped around a limb
electrical burns: switch off power supply, remove the person from the source
chemical burns: brush any powder off then irrigate with water. Attempts to neutralise the chemical are not recommended
Wallace’s rule of nines
head + neck = 9%,
each arm = 9%,
each anterior part of leg = 9%,
each posterior part of leg = 9%,
anterior chest = 9%,
posterior chest = 9%,
Anterior abdomen = 9%,
posterior abdomen = 9%
The palmar surface is approximately 1%
Superficial epidermal burn
First degree
Red and painful, no dry blisters
Patial thickness (superficial dermal)
Second degree burn
Pale piping, painful, blistered and reduced cap refill time
Partial thickness burn (deep dermal)
Second degree
Typically white, but may have non-blanching erythema
Reduced sensation
Painful to deep pressure
Full thickness burn
- third degree burn
- white (waxy)
- brown (leathery)
Black in colour with no blisters or pain
Acynotic congenital heart disease
ventricular septal defects (VSD) - most common, accounts for 30%
atrial septal defect (ASD)
patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
coarctation of the aorta
aortic valve stenosis
Cyanotic causes of congenital heart disease
tetralogy of Fallot
transposition of the great arteries (TGA)
tricuspid atresia
Peripheral cyanosis in neonatal period
very common in the first 24 hours of life and may occur when the child is crying or unwell from any cause
Central cyanosis in neonatal period
Central cyanosis can be recognised clinically when the concentration of reduced haemoglobin in the blood exceeds 5g/dl
Nitrogen washout test
nitrogen washout test (also known as the hyperoxia test) may be used to differentiate cardiac from non-cardiac causes. The infant is given 100% oxygen for ten minutes after which arterial blood gases are taken. A pO2 of less than 15 kPa indicates cyanotic congenital heart disease
Causes of cyanotic congenital heart disease
tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
transposition of the great arteries (TGA)
tricuspid atresia
Management of suspected cyanotic congenital heart disease
supportive care
prostaglandin E1 e.g. alprostadil
used to maintain a patent ductus arteriosus in ductal-dependent congenital heart defect
this can act as a holding measure until a definite diagnosis is made and surgical correction performed
Acrocyanosis
refers to cyanosis around the mouth and the extremities such as the hands and feet
occurs immediately after birth in healthy infants. It is a common finding and may persist for 24 to 48 hours.
Teraology of Fallot
Most common cause of congenital heart disease
Presents around 1-2 months but may not be picked up until the baby is 6 months old
Four characteristic features of teralogy of fallot
ventricular septal defect (VSD)
right ventricular hypertrophy
right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, pulmonary stenosis
overriding aorta
severity of the right ventricular outflow tract obstruction determines the degree of cyanosis and clinical severity
Features of TOF
cyanosis
unrepaired TOF infants may develop episodic hypercyanotic ‘tet’ spells due to near occlusion of the right ventricular outflow tract
features of tet spells include tachypnoea and severe cyanosis that may occasionally result in loss of consciousness
they typically occur when an infant is upset, is in pain or has a fever
causes a right-to-left shunt
ejection systolic murmur due to pulmonary stenosis (the VSD doesn’t usually cause a murmur)
a right-sided aortic arch is seen in 25% of patients
chest x-ray shows a ‘boot-shaped’ heart, ECG shows right ventricular hypertrophy
Management of TOF
surgical repair is often undertaken in two parts
cyanotic episodes may be helped by beta-blockers to reduce infundibular spasm
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA)
Transposition of the great arteries (TGA) is a form of cyanotic congenital heart disease. It is caused by the failure of the aorticopulmonary septum to spiral during septation. Children of diabetic mothers are at an increased risk of TGA.
Anatomical changes in TGA
aorta leaves the right ventricle
pulmonary trunk leaves the left ventricle
Clinical features of TGA
cyanosis
tachypnoea
loud single S2
prominent right ventricular impulse
‘egg-on-side’ appearance on chest x-ray
Management of TGA
maintenance of the ductus arteriosus with prostaglandins
surgical correction is the definite treatment.
Extramural haematoma
collection of blood that is between the skull and the dura.
It is almost always caused by trauma and most typically by ˜low-impact’ trauma (e.g. a blow to the head or a fall).
Collection is typically in the temporal region (MIDDLE MENINGEAL ARTERY)
patient who initially loses, briefly regains and then loses again consciousness after a low-impact head injury.
Extradural haematoma
Ludic period
Imaging of extradural haematoma
biconvex (or lentiform), hyperdense collection around the surface of the brain. They are limited by the suture lines of the skull.
Treatment of extradural haematoma
treatment is craniotomy and evacuation of the haematoma.
Hypoglycaemia causes
insulinoma - increased ratio of proinsulin to insulin
self-administration of insulin/sulphonylureas
liver failure
Addison’s disease
alcohol
causes exaggerated insulin secretion
mechanism is thought to be due to the effect of alcohol on the pancreatic microcirculation → redistribution of pancreatic blood flow from the exocrine into the endocrine parts → increased insulin secretion
nesidioblastosis - beta cell hyperplasia
Features of hypoglycaemia
blood glucose levels and the severity of symptoms are not always correlated, especially in patients with diabetes.
blood glucose concentrations <3.3 mmol/L cause autonomic symptoms due to the release of glucagon and adrenaline (average frequency in brackets):
Sweating
Shaking
Hunger
Anxiety
Nausea
blood glucose concentrations below <2.8 mmol/L cause neuroglycopenic symptoms due to inadequate glucose supply to the brain:
Weakness
Vision changes
Confusion
Dizziness
Severe and uncommon features of hypoglycaemia include:
Convulsion
Coma
Management of hypoglycaemia in hospital settings
If the patient is alert, a quick-acting carbohydrate may be given (as above)
If the patient is unconscious or unable to swallow, subcutaneous or intramuscular injection glucagon may be given.
Alternatively, intravenous 20% glucose solution may be given through a large vein
Managment of hypoglycaemia
in the community (for example, diabetes mellitus patients who inject insulin):
Initially, oral glucose 10-20g should be given in liquid, gel or tablet form
Alternatively, a propriety quick-acting carbohydrate may be given: GlucoGel or Dextrogel.
A ‘HypoKit’ may be prescribed which contains a syringe and vial of glucagon for IM or SC injection at home
Signs and symptoms of hypoglycaemia
blood glucose levels and the severity of symptoms are not always correlated, especially in patients with diabetes.
blood glucose concentrations <3.3 mmol/L cause autonomic symptoms due to the release of glucagon and adrenaline (average frequency in brackets):
Sweating
Shaking
Hunger
Anxiety
Nausea
blood glucose concentrations below <2.8 mmol/L cause neuroglycopenic symptoms due to inadequate glucose supply to the brain:
Weakness
Vision changes
Confusion
Dizziness
Severe and uncommon features of hypoglycaemia include:
Convulsion
Coma
Subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH)
intracranial haemorrhage that is defined as the presence of blood within the subarachnoid space, i.e. deep to the subarachnoid layer of the meninges.
Causes of spontaneous SAH
intracranial aneurysm (saccular ˜berry’ aneurysms)
accounts for around 85% of cases
conditions associated with berry aneurysms include hypertension,adult polycystic kidney disease, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and coarctation of the aorta
arteriovenous malformation
pituitary apoplexy
mycotic (infective) aneurysms
Classical presentation of SAH
- Headache (sudden onset, thunderclap)
- severe (worst in my life)
- occipital
typically peaking in intensity within 1 to 5 minutes
there may be a history of a less-severe ‘sentinel’ headache in the weeks prior to presentation
nausea and vomiting
meningism (photophobia, neck stiffness)
coma
seizures
ECG changes including ST elevation may be seen
this may be secondary to either autonomic neural stimulation from the hypothalamus or elevated levels of circulating catecholamines
Investigation for SAH
Non-contrast CT (acute blood, hypodense, bright on CT)
If CT done within 6 hours of symptoms, may appear to be normal
LP after 12 hours of symptoms shows Xathochromia
CSF will also show normal or raised opening pressure
Managment of SAH
supportive
bed rest
analgesia
venous thromboembolism prophylaxis
discontinuation of antithrombotics (reversal of anticoagulation if present)
vasospasm is prevented using a course of oral nimodipine
intracranial aneurysms are at risk of rebleeding and therefore require prompt intervention, preferably within 24 hours
most intracranial aneurysms are now treated with a coil by interventional neuroradiologists, but a minority require a craniotomy and clipping by a neurosurgeon
Complications of SAH
re-bleeding
happens in around 10% of cases and most common in the first 12 hours
if rebleeding is suspected (e.g. sudden worsening of neurological symptoms) then a repeat CT should be arranged
associated with a high mortality (up to 70%)
hydrocephalus
hydrocephalus is temporarily treated with an external ventricular drain (CSF diverted into a bag at the bedside) or, if required, a long-term ventriculoperitoneal shunt
vasospasm (also termed delayed cerebral ischaemia), typically 7-14 days after onset
ensure euvolaemia (normal blood volume)
consider treatment with a vasopressor if symptoms persist
hyponatraemia (most typically due to syndrome inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone (SIADH))
seizures
Predictive factors of SAH
conscious level on admission
age
amount of blood visible on CT head
What is subdural haematoma
subdural haematoma is a collection of blood deep to the dural layer of the meninges.
The blood is not within the substance of the brain and is therefore called an ˜extra-axial’ or ˜extrinsic’ lesion. They can be unilateral or bilateral.
Classifications of subdural haemorrhage
Acute: Symptoms usually develop within 48 hours of injury, characterised by rapid neurological deterioration
Subacute: Symptoms manifest within days to weeks post-injury, with a more gradual progression.
Chronic: Common in the elderly, developing over weeks to months. Patients may not recall a specific head injury.
Neurological features of subdural haemorrhage
Altered Mental Status: Ranging from mild confusion to deep coma. Fluctuations in the level of consciousness are common.
Focal Neurological Deficits: Weakness on one side of the body, aphasia, or visual field defects, depending on the haematoma’s location.
Headache: Often localised to one side, worsening over time.
Seizures: May occur, particularly in acute or expanding hematomas.
Physical examination findings of subdural haemorrhage
Papilloedema: Indicates raised intracranial pressure.
Pupil Changes: Unilateral dilated pupil, especially on the side of the haematoma, indicating compression of the third cranial nerve.
Gait Abnormalities: Including ataxia or weakness in one leg.
Hemiparesis or Hemiplegia: Reflecting the mass effect and midline shift.
Behavioural and cognitive change in subdural haemorrhage
Memory loss- especially in chronic SDH
Personality Changes: Irritability, apathy, or depression.
Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty with attention, problem-solving, and other executive functions.
Other associated features of SDH
Nausea and Vomiting: Secondary to increased intracranial pressure.
Drowsiness: Progressing to stupor and coma in severe cases.
Signs of Increased Intracranial Pressure: Such as bradycardia, hypertension, and respiratory irregularities (Cushing’s triad).
GCS
Motor, verbal and eye features
(M6, V5, E4)
Motor response
- Infant moves spontaneously or purposefully
- Infant withdraws from touch
- Infant withdraws from pain
- Abnormal flexion to pain for an infant (decorticate response)
- Extension to pain (decerebrate response)
- No motor response
Verbal response
- Orientated
- Confused
- Words
- Sounds
- None
Eye response
- Spontaneous
- To speech
- To pain
- None
Fluid therapy in adults
25-30 ml/kg/ day
1 mol/kg/day of K+, Na+ and CL-
Approximately 50-100g per day of glucose to limit strvation and ketosis
Prescription of fluids contradictions and concerns
0.9% saline
if large volumes are used there is an increased risk of hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis
Hartmann’s
contains potassium and therefore should not be used in patients with hyperkalaemia
Fluid therapy in children (when required)
IV fluids required when:
the child is > 10% dehydrated, or
the child is if 5-10% dehydrated and oral or enteral rehydration is not tolerated or possible.
24hr fluid requirement- under 10kg
100ml/kg
24hr fluid requirement 10-20kg
100 mL/kg for the first 10 kg
50 mL/kg for each 1 kg body weight over 10 kg
24 hr fluid requirement over 20kg
100 mL/kg for the first 10 kg
50 mL/kg for each 1 kg body weight between 10-20 kg
20 mL/kg for each 1 kg body weight over 20 kg
(max. 2 litres in females, 2.5 litres in males)
IV fluids in children
The fluid type routinely used is 0.9% sodium chloride + 5% dextrose. Potassium is added as required.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state (HHS)
Medical emergency with 20% mortality
Hyperglycaemia results in osmotic diuresis, severe dehydration, and electrolyte deficiencies. HHS typically presents in the elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Pathophysiology of HHS
Hyperglycaemia results in osmotic diuresis, severe dehydration, and electrolyte deficiencies. HHS typically presents in the elderly with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Precipitating factors of HHS
- intercurrent illness
-dementia
-sedative drugs
Clinical features of HHS
- occurs over many days, associated with dehydration and metabolic disturbances
- volume loft (polyuria, polydipsia, signs of dehydration)
Systemic
- lethargy
- nausea and vomiting
neurological
-altered level of consciousness
-focal neurological deficits
haematological
-hyperviscosity (may result in myocardial infarctions, stroke and peripheral arterial thrombosis)
Signs and symptoms of HHS
hypovolaemia
marked hyperglycaemia (>30 mmol/L)
significantly raised serum osmolarity (> 320 mosmol/kg)
can be calculated by: 2 * Na+ + glucose + urea
no significant hyperketonaemia (<3 mmol/L)
no significant acidosis (bicarbonate > 15 mmol/l or pH > 7.3 - acidosis can occur due to lactic acidosis or renal impairment)
Managment of HHS
fluid replacement
fluid losses in HHS are estimated to be between 100 - 220 ml/kg
IV 0.9% sodium chloride solution
typically given at 0.5 - 1 L/hour depending on clinical assessment
potassium levels should be monitored and added to fluids depending on the level
insulin
should not be given unless blood glucose stops falling while giving IV fluids
venous thromboembolism prophylaxis
patients are at risk of thrombosis due to hyperviscosity
Complications of HHS
Vascular complications:
- MI
- stroke
What are the causes of hypercalcaemia?
- Primary hyperparathyroidism
- Malignancy (SCLS, bone mets, myeloma)
- Sarcoidosis
- Vit D intoxication
- Acromegaly
- Thyrotoxicosis
- Milk- alkali syndrome
- Thiazides
9/ calcium containing antacids
10 dehydatraion
11 Addison’s disease
12 pager’s disease of the bone
Features of hypercalcaemia
bones, stones, groans and psychic moans’
corneal calcification
shortened QT interval on ECG
hypertension
Hyperkalaemia
- regulated by a number of factors including aldosterone, acid-base balance and insulin levels
- metabolic acidosis is associated
Causes of hyperkalaemia
acute kidney injury
drugs*: potassium sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, spironolactone, ciclosporin, heparin**
metabolic acidosis
Addison’s disease
rhabdomyolysis
massive blood transfusion
- salt substitutes
- bananas, oranges, kiwi, avos, spinach and tonatoes
Managment of hyperkalaemia
- Stabilisation of the cardiac membrane
IV calcium gluconate
does NOT lower serum potassium levels
Short-term shift in potassium from extracellular (ECF) to intracellular fluid (ICF)
compartment
combined insulin/dextrose infusion
nebulised salbutamol
Removal of potassium from the body
calcium resonium (orally or enema)
enemas are more effective than oral as potassium is secreted by the rectum
loop diuretics
dialysis
haemofiltration/haemodialysis should be considered for patients with AKI with persistent hyperkalaemia
Staging of hyperkalaemia
mild: 5.5 - 5.9 mmol/L
moderate: 6.0 - 6.4 mmol/L
severe: ≥ 6.5 mmol/L
ECG changes of hyperkalaemia
peaked or ‘tall-tented’ T waves (occurs first)
loss of P waves
broad QRS complexes
sinusoidal wave pattern
Practical managment of hyperkalaemia
IV calcium gluconate: to stabilise the myocardium
insulin/dextrose infusion: short-term shift in potassium from ECF to ICF
other treatments such as nebulised salbutamol may be given to temporarily lower the serum potassium
Further management
stop exacerbating drugs e.g. ACE inhibitors
treat any underlying cause
lower total body potassium
calcium resonium
loop diuretics
dialysis
Hypernatraemia causes
- dehydration
-osmotic diuresis e.g. hyperosmolar non-ketotic diabetic coma
diabetes insipidus
excess IV saline
Risks of treating hypernatremia
owering of other osmolytes (and importantly water) occurs at a slower rate, predisposing to cerebral oedema, resulting in seizures, coma and death
Should be corrected at 0.5mmol/hour
Causes of hypocalcaemia
vitamin D deficiency (osteomalacia)
chronic kidney disease
hypoparathyroidism (e.g. post thyroid/parathyroid surgery)
pseudohypoparathyroidism (target cells insensitive to PTH)
rhabdomyolysis (initial stages)
magnesium deficiency (due to end organ PTH resistance)
massive blood transfusion
acute pancreatitis
False positive hypocalcaemia
Contamination of blood samples with EDTA may also give falsely low calcium levels.