Medical High Dependency Unit series, Article 3: Respiratory Support in the MHDU.

Acute respiratory failure is a life threatening condition encountered by Acute Physicians; additional non-invasive support can be provided within the medical high dependency unit (MHDU). Acute Physicians should strive to be experts in the investigation, management and support of patients with acute severe respiratory failure. This article outlines key management principles in these areas and explores common pitfalls.

Medical High Dependency Series 2: Haemodynamics and Shock: Assessment, Interventions and Support.

Shock is a life-threatening state commonly encountered by the acute physician. As such those practicing and training in the specialty should strive to become true experts in this field by going beyond even the learning provided by generic life support courses when involved with identifying and managing the shocked state. This article explores the current evidence, where it exists and provides a framework for approaching such patients along with common pitfalls.