Sympathomimetic-Induced Hyperthermia and Hyponatremia: A Simulation Case for Emergency Medicine Residents
MedEdPORTAL September 30, 2021 Ashlea Winfield, Elizabeth Black, Michelle Sergel
MDMA intoxication can cause life-threatening hyperthermia and hyponatremia, and rapid cooling is critical when body temperature exceeds 106 °F. A simulation-based training scenario was created for emergency medicine residents to practice diagnosing sympathomimetic toxicity and managing hyperthermia and hyponatremia with cooling measures and appropriate fluids. Eighteen residents participated; all agreed the scenario increased their knowledge of cooling methods, especially whole-body packing, and 89% reported it changed their practice patterns. The scenario requires minimal resources and is suitable for residents at all training levels.