Neurogenic Shock: A Case Report.

BACKGROUND: Neurogenic shock is a life-threatening emergency associated with spinal cord injuries. Early cervical spine immobilization to reduce the risk of neurogenic shock is imperative. In addition, early recognition and treatment of neurogenic shock are essential to prevent hypoperfusion-related injuries and death. CASE PRESENTATION: This case outlines a 65-year-old male who experienced a cervical spine fracture after a motorcycle crash. The patient received stabilizing treatment by a flight crew consisting of both a registered nurse and paramedic. After assessment and stabilization, he was diagnosed as having neurogenic shock. Despite invasive treatment and resuscitation efforts, the patient succumbed to his injuries. CONCLUSION: It is important for emergency nurses to quickly identify the risk factors for cervical spine injuries and maintain cervical spine immobilization to minimize the risk of neurogenic shock.

Pericardiocentesis by an Air Medical Service for Cardiac Tamponade Caused by Purulent Pericarditis.

This case presentation describes the clinical management and course of an adult patient found to be in cardiac tamponade secondary to purulent pericarditis. This etiology represents an uncommon cause of pericardial tamponade and highlights the importance of recognizing clinical signs of this physiological state despite the uncommon presentation. This also reinforces that critical care transport teams must be trained and facile with high acuity-low occurrence skills such as pericardiocentesis as such time-sensitive measures may be necessary to stabilize patients for transport. The patient in this case had clinical improvement after pericardiocentesis was performed and this allowed for the safe transport of the patient to a tertiary care center.