LAUSR

E-cigarettes work by heating a liquid that usually contains nicotine and various chemical components to form an aerosol that is inhaled deep into the lungs.2 However, modification of available hardware for vaping has allowed users to vape tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabinoid oils as well. Although the exact cause of EVALI is unknown, the CDC reports that vaping products containing THC are linked to most EVALI cases. In addition, vitamin E acetate found in products containing THC is strongly implicated.1 Research is ongoing. For clinicians caring for patients with EVALI, the CDC has issued an EVALI discharge readiness checklist.3 This practical tool is intended to help clinicians determine that a patient is ready for discharge and ensure appropriate outpatient follow-up. It covers these points: • The patient must be clinically stable to be discharged from the hospital. This includes normalization of lab values and stable vital signs, physical assessment findings, and oxygenation and exercise tolerance for 24 to 48 hours before discharge.