Misconceptions surrounding videoconferencing.

We carried out a study to assess the level of training required by hospital staff to operate a videoconferencing system. Fifty members of hospital staff, who had no previous videoconferencing experience, were studied. When using simple pictorial instructions, they took on average just under 6 min to connect successfully to a remote site. Male subjects connected faster (average 309 s) than female subjects (385 s; P < 0.01). Subjects of 40 years or younger connected faster (average 311 s) than those over 40 years (average 398 s; P < 0.02). Only three individuals (6%) required supplementary help via the telephone. Dedicated training may not be necessary when simple pictorial instructions are available to the operator.

Gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB): an increasing trend in drug abuse.

The use of recreational drugs in society is becoming a widespread problem increasing the workload of all the emergency services. Gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is one of these, a drug used primarily for its euphoric effect. Toxic effects of ingestion include bradycardia, slow respiration or apnoea, coma and death. We present seven cases, all of which had consumed GHB either alone or in conjunction with other drugs and alcohol. The presentation, clinical features and management of these cases are described. All health care personnel involved in the emergency setting need to know of its existence, toxic effects and initial management with particular reference to airway control and possible assisted ventilation.