Effects of ethanol on systemic hemodynamics in a porcine model of accidental hypothermia.

Objectives: Accidental hypothermia is frequently associated with ethanol intoxication. Each has independent effects on systemic hemodynamics, but their combined effects are poorly understood. We aimed to describe the hemodynamic effects of ethanol intoxication in a model of severe hypothermia and rewarming.

Hospital response to a major freeway bridge collapse.

Background: We describe the hospital system response to the Interstate 35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis into the Mississippi River on August 1, 2007, which resulted in 13 deaths and 127 injuries. Comparative analysis of response activities at the 3 hospitals that received critical or serious casualties is provided.

Methods: First-hand experiences of hospital physicians, issues identified in after-action reports, injury severity scores, and other relevant patient data were collected from the 3 hospitals that received seriously injured patients, including the closest hospitals to the collapse on each side of the river.