Managing Patients With Sympathetic Crashing Acute Pulmonary Edema (SCAPE) Using the SCAPE Treatment Protocol: A Case Series.

Abstract

Pulmonary edema refers to the accumulation of excessive fluid in the alveolar walls and alveolar spaces of the lungs. It is a life-threatening condition with a high mortality rate and requires immediate assessment and management. Use of intravenous nitroglycerin has been advocated for such cases. The authors present a case series of 3 patients who presented to the emergency department with sympathetic crashing acute pulmonary edema (SCAPE) and were managed with high-dose intravenous nitroglycerin and bilevel positive airway pressure support using the SCAPE treatment protocol, leading to early correction of blood pressure, avoidance of endotracheal intubation, and no episodes of hypotension or rebound hypertension. The authors recommend emergency physicians utilize the SCAPE treatment protocol while managing patients with SCAPE.