End of Shift Podcast: Who Needs a Hand?

In the emergency department, we see many injured and infected hands and need to be comfortable with initial diagnosis and treatment before considering downstream follow up with a hand surgeon. Hosts Eric and Joe discuss common hand presentations, workup, and treatment with Dr. James Saunders, Head of Plastic Surgery for the Sea to Sky Corridor. They review fractures, dislocations, amputations, infections, and injuries in the ED.

James advises on the best finger to get chopped off in a hostage-taking scenario, and Joe has two practice-changing, “a-ha” moments. Plus, three ways hand injuries are mismanaged in the ED.

End of Shift Hosts

Eric Angus
Eric Angus is an emergency physician and trauma team leader at Lions Gate Hospital. He is married with 15-year-old twins. His nonmedical interests include origami, meditation, mountain biking, skiing, rock climbing, just generally being outside, and drinking wine. He has a diploma in mountain medicine and volunteers for ski patrol and the North Shore Rescue team. He is an ATLS instructor. He dabbles in stoicism and Buddhist philosophies.

Joe Haegert
Joe Haegert practices emergency and trauma medicine at the Royal Columbian Hospital in New Westminster, British Columbia. He is a talented teacher, engaging speaker, and devoted clinician. He lives in South Surrey with his wife Sandy and managed to raise three children without much incident. Known for his unflagging enthusiasm, Joe enjoys all aspects of the outdoors and recently has taken to turning wooden burls into all manner of bowls and tables.

Disclaimer
The discussion within the End of Shift podcast may be graphic, and some listeners may find the language and content disturbing. The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the BC Emergency Medicine Network.