Also known as: Brain bleed
Young man involved in single-vehicle collision with tree as apparent suicide attempt. CT scan reveals small subdural bleed. Initially comatose (GCS 9), successfully intubated and managed, regains consciousness with good neurological recovery.
Also known as: Meningitis
Nun-in-training presents with fever, headache, neck pain, and petechiae. Diagnosed with bacterial meningitis, treated with antibiotics and admitted to ICU. Requires isolation of all exposed contacts (St. Josephine's girls' basketball team) and prophylactic rifampin.
Also known as: Coat hanger stuck in throat
Young boy playing with coat hanger accidentally pierces posterior oropharynx near carotid artery. Develops airway swelling and bleeding, requiring emergency needle cricothyrotomy, surgical control of bleeding, and operative removal of foreign body.
Also known as: Suicide attempt
Patient with history of previous suicide gesture (pill overdose during breakup) who intentionally crashes car into tree after girlfriend Amy ends relationship. Suicide note found. Girlfriend expresses fear he will attempt again after she leaves town.
Also known as: Head laceration
Severe concussion from motor vehicle collision with initial GCS of 9 and coma. Patient requires intubation for airway protection despite borderline vital signs. Successfully extubated after stabilization with intact cognition and memory.
Also known as: Cut
Wealthy hospital board member presents with bagel-cutting injury to hand. Given VIP treatment with calls to hand surgery and plastics. Also has small bump near eye requiring ophthalmology consultation.