Novel Coronavirus-Induced Right Ventricular Failure and Point of Care Echocardiography: A Case Report.

Various cardiovascular complications have been reported in patients with coronavirus disease 2019. Common complications include acute myocardial injury, myocarditis, arrhythmia, pericarditis, heart failure, and shock. We present a case of cor pulmonale diagnosed with serial point of care ultrasound. Given the current shortage of personal protective equipment (PPE) and high infectivity of this virus, we acknowledge the utility of this tool in obtaining important clinical information while minimizing exposure and PPE consumption.

For Residents, by Residents: Developing a Physician Handoff Tool at a University Affiliated Community Hospital.

The 80-hour per week work limit resulted in an increased number of patient handoffs. A satisfactory handoff system should optimize the exchange of vital patient information while concisely minimizing error. This project describes our experience and lessons learned in successfully developing and implementing an Electronic Health Record (EHR)-integrated handoff system based on the I-PASS model. The handoff system, termed Physician Handoff, was refined through end-user feedback. End-users were evaluated on the quality of handoff in the following categories: Illness Severity, Patient Summary, Action List, and Situational Awareness. Resulting survey showed high adoption and satisfaction rate with Physician Handoff. Success can be attributed to interdepartmental collaboration, credentialing the users, and recognizing the importance of end-user feedback.

Superior Ophthalmic Vein Thrombosis Induced by Orbital Cellulitis: An Ophthalmic Emergency.

Superior ophthalmic vein thrombosis (SOVT) is a rare ophthalmologic emergency. The most common etiologies include infection, trauma, inflammation, and malignancy, as well as thyroid-related orbitopathy. Early identification and timely intervention can lead to a significant decrease in complications that include cavernous sinus thrombosis (CST), vision loss, and death. This rare disease entity almost always makes its initial presentation to internal medicine or emergency medicine (EM) physicians. In this report, we present a case of SOVT that presented overnight to the emergency department for worsening right facial swelling and orbital pain. We discuss our experience with the evaluation and management of SOVT and provide a review of the currently available literature to emphasize the importance of obtaining a full history and physical examination, seeking early imaging studies, and ophthalmology consultation for patients with suspected SOVT.

The Abnormal Sinus Rhythm: Myxedema Coma Complicated by Subacute Cardiac Tamponade.

Subacute cardiac tamponade (SCT) is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Combining careful history taking, focused physical exam, and the use of point of care ultrasound (POCUS) for early diagnosis with aggressive management can minimize potential complications. In patients with severe hypothyroidism and myxedema coma, clinical signs of cardiac tamponade may be masked and lead to delayed diagnosis. We present a case of a 67-year-old female with SCT secondary to myxedema coma, necessitating emergent pericardiocentesis following the identification of a large pericardial effusion with tamponade physiology. This case highlights the importance of thorough history taking with focused diagnostic workup, including POCUS in patients with an insidious presentation of SCT.