Notes on Radiological Emergencies

NOTES ON RADIOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES. By George Ansell. (Cardboard folder. lOs). Edinburgh and London: E. & S. Livingstone, 1966. MODERN techniques have made it possible to save the lives of many patients whose vital functions cease because of some temporary crisis. Cardiac massage, defibrillation, pacemaking, mouth to mouth ventilation and the understanding of the gross biochemical disturbances which result from a temporary stoppage of the heart beat or of respiration have made this possible. Because of this it is no longer ethical for any member of the hospital staff to stand back and allow the victim of such an emergency to die in peace. The vital factor is speed, not only may a few seconds delay in the application of the correct measure mean the difference between life and death, but it may also mean the difference between a normal survivor and one who is a permanently comatose vegetable. All hospital staff should have a certain minimal training as to what to do in these emergencies, but they cannot be expected to carry all the detailed information needed in their heads. This detail must be available at obvious points throughout the hospital and with it must be kept certain items of equipment and drugs and directions as to how to get expert assistance and such complex equipment as a defibrillator. Dr. Ansell has done an excellent job of producing a pamphlet containing the information that is necessary for dealing with emergencies that might arise in a diagnostic X-ray department. Not only is this pamphlet designed for quick reference, but it can be hung on the wall like a calendar and is shocking pink in colour. With a few minor amendments of drug names, etc., it should hang in a prominent place in every X-ray department and beside it should hang the emergency arrangements for cardiac and respiratory resuscitation for that hospital. Similar pamphlets should be designed to hang in other hospital departments, wards and laboratories. P.C.E.