Exposure to a Virtual Reality Mass-Casualty Simulation Elicits a Differential Sympathetic Response in Medical Trainees and Attending Physicians.

Background: Previous studies have demonstrated the use of virtual reality (VR) in mass-casualty incident (MCI) simulation; however, it is uncertain if VR simulations can be a substitute for in-person disaster training. Demonstrating that VR MCI scenarios can elicit the same desired stress response achieved in live-action exercises is a first step in showing non-inferiority. The primary objective of this study was to measure changes in sympathetic nervous system (SNS) response via a decrease in heart rate variability (HRV) in subjects participating in a VR MCI scenario.

Simulation Training for In-Flight Medical Emergencies Improves Provider Knowledge and Confidence.

In-flight medical emergencies require healthcare providers to operate in confined spaces with limited resources and delayed access to definitive care. These emergencies are common, with an estimated frequency of 1 per 100 to 1000 flights. Despite this, training for medical response in these environments is limited.

Effects of designated leadership and team-size on cardiopulmonary resuscitation: The Basel-Washington SIMulation (BaWaSim) trial.

Objective: During cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), it remains unclear whether designating an individual person as team leader compared with emergent leadership results in better team performance. Also, the effect of CPR team size on team performance remains understudied.

Methods: This randomized-controlled trial compared designated versus emergent leadership and size of rescue team (3 vs 6 rescuers) on resuscitation performance.

Developing a curriculum for emergency medicine residency orientation programs.

Background: New residents enter emergency medicine (EM) residency programs with varying EM experiences, which makes residency orientation programs challenging to design. There is a paucity of literature to support best practices.

Objective: We report on a curriculum development project for EM residency orientation using the Kern Model.

Are one or two dangerous? Calcium channel blocker exposure in toddlers.

Unintentional pediatric ingestions of calcium channel blockers are increasing in frequency due to increased use of this antihypertensive class. Potential toxic effects include severe refractory hypotension and death; however, the true toxicity of unintentional pediatric ingestions of 1-2 pills is poorly defined. A literature review was conducted to more closely determine toxic and lethal dosages of calcium channel blockers in the pediatric population under 6 years of age.