title: Sickle cell disease in the emergency department.
abstract: Acute painful episodes are the most common reason for emergency department visits among patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Early and aggressive pain management is a priority. Emergency providers (EPs) must also diagnose other emergent diagnoses in patients with SCD and differentiate them from vaso-occlusive crisis. EPs should be aware of cognitive biases that may misdirect the diagnostic process. Administration of intravenous fluids should be used judiciously. Blood transfusion may be considered. Coordination of care with hematology is an important part of the effective emergency department and long-term management of patients with SCD.
authors: Department of Emergency Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University & Hospitals, 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Thompson Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
authors: Paris B
authors: PB
authors: Lovett
authors: Department of Emergency Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University & Hospitals, 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Thompson Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA. Electronic address: harsh.sule@jefferson.edu.
authors: Harsh P
authors: HP
authors: Sule
authors: Department of Emergency Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University & Hospitals, 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Thompson Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
authors: Bernard L
authors: BL
authors: Lopez
mesh_terms: D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D006801:Humans; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D059408:Pain Management
keywords: Acute chest syndrome; Emergency department; Sickle cell disease; Vaso-occlusive crisis