Trauma complicates 6% to 7% of all pregnancies.1 Emergency department (ED) physicians and nurses will find themselves frequently caring for pregnant women who have suffered a variety of traumatic injuries, ranging from minor to life-threatening. These cases will be complicated by a variety of issues, including pregnancy-associated physiologic changes, imaging/radiation risks, limitations in medication use, and fetal monitoring/tocometry.
Anaphylaxis is a true life-threatening emergency that may occur following a variety of exposures. Foods, such as peanuts and tree nuts, antibiotics, and more recently, latex have all been implicated as potential triggers of a severe analpylactic reaction.
Accidental injury is the number one cause of death and disability in all children between 1 and 18 years of age. In 2002, trauma accounted for 33-39% of mortality in children aged 1-14 years.
Part I of this series examined the pathophysiology of asthma and emergency department management strategies such as beta agonists, steroids, and magnesium. Part II will continue with management strategies and will also discuss asthma in special populations.