Intravenous Chalk

It’s a commonly reported chemical reaction that IV calcium given in the same line as IV Bicarbonate causes the formation of Calcium Carbonate (i.e. limestone) in the IV. But does it really? (spoiler alert: YES!) It’s pretty quick too – I made a little video with the help of my friends in the Pathology Lab. […]

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CAR-T Cell Therapy

This is a new type of cancer treatment for certain malignancies where a patient’s blood undergoes apheresis to isolate the T-cells. These undergo gene insertion to express Chimeric Antigen Receptors for the specified target cancer. Cells are propagated in vitro then infused back into the patient where they target and kill the cancer cells. Key […]

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ACDF – Post-operative management

Risk factors for airway-related complications after surgery, specific to this surgery type / population Causes of upper airway obstruction specific to this type of surgery Signs of post-operative airway obstruction post cervical spine surgery Specific airway management strategies after cervical spine surgery (starting PRIOR to extubation)

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Massive haemataemesis

Opening statement: This is an immediately life-threatening condition where assessment and resuscitation occur simultaneously. Massive haematemesis is usually related to portal hypertension and oesophageal varices. Assessment History Examination Investigations Management Resuscitation Specific treatment Ongoing monitoring Supportive treatment

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Blood Gas 001

A 2-year old male presents with febrile seizure lasting ~10 minutes. 10 minutes after cessation IV access is established and a VBG is taken Results: pH: 7.28 (Reference range: 7.31 – 7.41) pCO2: 60 mmHg (Reference range: 35 – 45 mmHg) HCO3: 18 mmol/L (Reference range: 22 – 29 mmol/L) Base Excess: -8 mmol/L (Reference […]

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