Pediatric Emergency Medicine Reports
RSSArticles
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Viral Influenza Infection and Complications: A Pediatric-focused Review
As influenza season approaches, it is important that clinicians prepare themselves with the current literature on clinical presentation, best and most rapid diagnostic testing, and treatment strategies in pediatric patients. The literature shows that antiviral agents are underutilized in children, a critical issue for this vulnerable population. The authors provide insight and evidence for diagnostic and therapeutic practice for the upcoming influenza season.
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Pediatric Abdominal Ultrasound: A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Diagnosis — Part II
Ultrasound is evolving rapidly as the ideal imaging modality for many common pediatric complaints. In the second part of this series, the authors discuss point-of-care use of ultrasound for concerns regarding the kidneys, ovaries, testicles, gallbladder, and small bowel obstruction. The ability to make critical diagnoses safely and rapidly with ultrasound is an invaluable clinical tool to facilitate and improve pediatric care.
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Pediatric Abdominal Ultrasound: A Comprehensive Guide to Making the Diagnosis — Part I
Ultrasound is rapidly evolving as the ideal imaging modality for many common pediatric complaints. This two-part series reviews the select applications of ultrasound, reviewing the basic techniques, indications, and limitations for each exam.
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Cervical Spinal Injury
Although spinal injuries are uncommon, they should be considered when children have sustained head or neck trauma or multiple severe injuries. Children with severe or multisystem trauma are more likely to suffer a spinal injury. Thus, emergency department providers should have a lower threshold to immobilize and image such patients to prevent morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the most common pediatric spinal fractures and injuries and optimal management practices.
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Infectious Meningitis: A Focused Review
The effectiveness of the current vaccine schedule has led to a significant decline in the incidence of bacterial meningitis. Delays in recognition and antibiotic administration result in increased morbidity and mortality; therefore, clinicians must maintain a high degree of vigilance for the subtle findings of meningitis, particularly in infants. Current standards for selective imaging, diagnostic testing, and empiric antibiotics are discussed.
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Respiratory Distress in Pediatric Patients
Respiratory diseases are common in pediatrics, and providers need to have an in-depth knowledge of the presentation, diagnostic approach, and therapeutic options to optimize outcomes.
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Orofacial, Eye, and Ear Trauma
Facial trauma is uncommon in children. However, the unique features of these injuries, as well as the assessment and management considerations to minimize radiation exposure and ensure optimal cosmetic outcome, require an awareness of the diagnostic and therapeutic approach in pediatric patients. The authors provide an overview of orofacial, eye, and ear trauma in children.
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Pediatric Sepsis and Septic Shock
Pediatric sepsis is a high-stakes diagnosis that requires vigilance to make an early, timely diagnosis. Aggressive resuscitation, including fluids, antibiotics, and vasoactive agents, may be necessary. Rapidly changing standard of care also makes sepsis a critical diagnosis for clinicians.
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Soft Tissue Disorders of the Neck in Children
Pediatric patients frequently present to the emergency department with issues affecting the soft tissues of the neck. This article will focus on the assessment, evaluation, differential, and treatment of both superficial and deep neck soft tissue disorders that clinicians should consider in the emergency setting.
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Approach to Pediatric Eye Discharge and Periorbital Swelling
Eye problems, particularly conjunctivitis and periorbital swelling, are very common. The majority are managed easily, but more serious disease processes must be considered. Early recognition and prompt treatment of more serious etiologies, such as gonococcal conjunctivitis and herpes simplex virus, can prevent vision loss.