Non-Accidental Trauma
Child abuse and neglect are defined as: Any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker, which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation; or an act or failure to act, which presents an imminent risk of serious harm. Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment […]
Newborn Nursery Common Conditions
The early newborn period offers one of the most dynamic looks into changing physiology and adaptation of the human body as babyās transition from fetal homeostasis to self-sufficient newborn physiology. In this transition there is ample room for delay or mistake, and thus the world of newborn nursery offers a myriad of clinical scenarios for […]
Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia
Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common conditions in pediatrics, as all newborns start life with deficits in bilirubin metabolism that require a bilirubin check before their discharge from the newborn nursery. Hyperbilirubinemia in infants ā„35 weeks gestation is defined as a total bilirubin >95th percentile for age (in hours of life) and gestation. […]
Methods of Oxygen Delivery
General principles Always attach oxygen tubing to the (often) green āoxygenā hookup valve in the wall, which is 100% FiO2. Avoid the (often) yellow āairā valve, which is only ambient 21% O2. Each liter of oxygen effectively provides approximately 3% FiO2. When oxygen delivery is at higher-than-standard flow rate (>4L/min) humidification is necessary (just ask […]
Meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. It is a serious condition that can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in the pediatric population. Although bacterial meningitis is the most dangerous form, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections can also lead to meningitis. In the era […]
Kawasaki Disease
Kawasaki disease (KD), also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is an acute, self-limited vasculitis that predominantly affects children, typically under the age of 5 years. It is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. Its diagnosis and management are of paramount importance in pediatric practice. Kawasaki disease can lead […]
Ingestions and Toxidromes
Pediatrics is a unique population in the work of ingestions, as they are at high risk for both accidental ingestion and intentional ingestions. Within those categories, there are varying exposures, ranging from over-the-counter medications to prescribed medications and illicit substances to household products. Accidental ingestions are more likely to be seen in the toddler population […]
Hypovolemic Shock
Hypovolemic shock is a critical condition characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion due to a significant loss of blood or fluids. It is a common cause of shock in pediatric patients and requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent morbidity and mortality. This article provides an overview of the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, pathophysiology, clinical features, differential […]
Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) is a common cause of acute kidney injury in children and is a condition that requires prompt recognition and management by pediatricians. It is characterized by the triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury (often evidenced by rising creatinine). It is typically classified as secondary (previously known as […]
Head Trauma
Pediatric head trauma is one of the more common reasons children are seen in the primary care, urgent care, and emergency room settings. Children can present with a range of symptoms, including alteration to mentation, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, and short-term amnesia, all of which can be incredibly concerning to their caregivers. Physical exam findings […]