Department of Emergency Medicine

Tyler Barrett, MD, MSCI
September 16, 2024

Tyler Barrett appointed Associate Chief Medical Officer for Compliance

September 9, 2024

High-sensitivity test expected to expedite heart attack diagnosis and treatment

At Vanderbilt University Hospital, there are approximately 75,000 adult emergency department visits a year, and approximately 20% of all ED patients receive a cardiac troponin test as part of their initial evaluation. The new cardiac troponin test is more precise and provides results faster.

By Jill Clendening
September 4, 2024

RSV vaccine in older people cuts risk of hospitalization

A multicenter study conducted in 19 states between October 2023 and March 2024 demonstrated that RSV vaccination was 75% effective in preventing RSV-associated hospitalizations for adults age 60 and older.

By Bill Snyder
August 30, 2024

Emergency department tests wireless patient monitoring

The pilot extends to continuous wireless monitoring of blood pressure, blood oxygen level, heart rate and continuous cardiac rhythm. The aim is improved vigilance, efficiency and satisfaction for patients and staff.

By Paul Govern
July 12, 2024

Wesley Self named to leadership role in global clinical trials network

The Strategies and Treatments for Respiratory Infections and Viral Emergencies network includes more than 300 sites around the world and international experts in clinical trials, infectious diseases, critical care and pandemic preparedness.

By Bill Snyder
July 10, 2024

The LifeFlight legacy: 40 years in 40 photos

Since July 1984, LifeFlight has made 76,942 flights and transported 80,118 patients. It’s transported another 37,133 patients since its ground transport program began; critical care ground transports number 4,188.

This is the ever-expanding legacy: mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, wives, husbands, children and grandparents — alive. Explore an audio clip, map and more.

By Craig Boerner, Diana Duren, Holly Fletcher, Erin O. Smith, Wayne Wood
June 20, 2024

Renowned Emergency Medicine educator, clinician Keith Wrenn mourned

Dr. Wrenn's clinical skill inspired awe. He taught by example, and his patience, compassion and focus on patient-centered care leaves an indelible impression on trainees and colleagues.
By Paul Govern
April 26, 2024

Homelessness a major issue for many patients in the emergency department

Unstable housing and homelessness can exacerbate adverse health outcomes, leading to increased risk of chronic disease, injury, and disability. Yet, emergency departments currently do not have a universal method to identify those at risk of, or currently experiencing, homelessness.
By Craig Boerner
April 25, 2024

Advance in the treatment of acute heart failure identified

A multicenter study led by Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Lipscomb University College of Pharmacy in Nashville has identified a potential new treatment for acute heart failure, a leading cause of hospitalization and death.
By Bill Snyder
April 23, 2024

Civil Rights leader visits VUH Emergency Department

Legendary civil rights activist Diane Nash visited the emergency department at Vanderbilt University Medical Center on April 20 to acknowledge the naming of a physician team in her honor. 
By Bill Snyder
April 3, 2024

Latest SMART rotation of military personnel taking place

The latest Strategic Medical Asset Readiness Training (SMART) rotation began early this week for 11 members of the United States military, where they will work in clinical areas of the adult hospital.
By Elisa Bickett
March 29, 2024

A gunshot to the head. A long recovery. Then a wedding.

Special Agent Adam Daniels celebrates ongoing recovery after gunshot causes traumatic brain injury; family’s gift will support care of others with similar injuries
By Jill Clendening
March 11, 2024

School of Medicine in top 10 in NIH funding: survey

Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, which received $527.7 million in direct and indirect NIH grant support in FY23, has been among the top 10 U.S. medical schools in NIH funding for six of the last 10 years.
By Bill Snyder