Managing the unstable patient. The first 10 minutes often set the course.
Some patients die shortly after the onset of an acute illness, despite the best of care. However, a well-led well-organized approach during the first 10 minutes of care can greatly improve the chances of survival and minimize subsequent morbidity. Early treatment should emphasize proper airway management, adequate intravenous access, and a thoughtful approach to the use of medications.
Dacey
M J
MJ
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Division of Critical Care Medicine, PA 15213-2582, USA. michaeldaceymd@metscape.met
D000208:Acute Disease / Q000628:therapy*; D003422:Critical Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D016638:Critical Illness / Q000628:therapy*; D004630:Emergencies; D004632:Emergency Medical Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D004635:Emergency Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000379:methods; D007857:Leadership; D010820:Physicians / Q000458:organization & administration; D013997:Time Factors