Browse Pediatric Emergency Medicine Articles by Topic

Measles and Mumps: Old Diseases, New Outbreaks

Measles and mumps are back ... and not in a good way. Until now, many clinicians had only heard of these almost-eradicated diseases. Unfortunately, the reality is clinicians may see children with these diseases. It is critical to identify them early, recognize potential high-risk exposures, and manage the disease and its complications effectively. Involvement of public health resources and early appropriate isolation are necessary to limit the spread of these two infections. The author provides a timely review of all critical aspects of both of these diseases.

Approach to Pediatric Abdominal Pain in the ED: Part I

Abdominal pain is a common pediatric chief complaint with a diversity of etiologies. Many are benign, but some have the potential for devastating consequences if a timely diagnosis is not made. Understanding and practicing a comprehensive approach facilitates consideration of more serious pathology while allowing for a focused diagnostic plan. This two-part series guides the clinician to a practical clinical approach to pediatric abdominal pain.

An Update on Physical Abuse of Children

Approximately one in five children evaluated in the emergency department is physically abused. Emergency physicians have a responsibility to consider abuse in the differential of every injured child. Although there is increasing awareness of the emergency physician’s role in diagnosing abuse, emergency physicians frequently fail to recognize the more subtle presentations of abuse. This article reviews the identification, evaluation, and management of a child with possible physical abuse.

Shocking Injuries: Knowing the Risks and Management for Electrical Injuries

Approximately 5,000 patients present to the emergency department each year for evaluation and treatment of electrical injuries. This article will discuss the different classifications of electrical exposures and describe the recommended initial evaluation, diagnostic workup, and treatment. In addition, the authors also discuss special situations, such as lightning exposures, pediatric exposures, and electrical exposures during pregnancy.

Sleep Tight, and Don’t Let the Ectoparasites Bite: Part 2

Providers in the pediatric emergency department frequently encounter ectoparasitic infestations. Infestations require early recognition and knowledge of effective treatment strategies. Last month, the author reviewed scabies, chiggers, and lice. This month, the bedbugs and ticks will come biting!

Sleep Tight, and Don’t Let the Ectoparasites Bite: Part 1

Providers in the pediatric emergency department frequently encounter ectoparasitic infestations. Lice and scabies require early recognition and knowledge of effective treatment strategies. This month, the author reviews scabies, chiggers, and lice. Next month, the bed bugs and ticks will come biting!

Acute Treatment of Pediatric Migraine

Migraines occur in young children, but may be challenging to diagnose. Migraines can have a great impact on pediatric patients’ quality of life with school absence and limitations on extracurricular activities. Treatment of pediatric migraines or possible migraines is difficult secondary to the lack of evidence for effective therapies in pediatric patients. Treatment includes traditional therapy with dopamine receptor antagonists (DRAs), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), triptans, and combination therapies. Newer therapies include magnesium, valproic acid (VPA), and peripheral nerve blocks. The authors review the clinical presentation of migraines in children, guidelines for diagnosis, and therapeutic options.

Update on Urinary Tract Infections in Children: What’s New in 2019?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a potential cause of fever in the pediatric patient. Early testing and a timely diagnosis are critical to avert complications and potential scarring of the kidneys. Complication rates in children younger than 90 days of age include bacteremia, meningitis, and urosepsis. The authors present a concise review of the current status of the diagnosis and management of pediatric UTIs.

Pediatric Cardiothoracic Point-of-Care Ultrasound: Part II

Ultrasound has emerged as a critical tool for use at the bedside to guide both diagnosis and treatment strategies. In this article, the authors discuss cardiac arrest, congenital abnormalities, pneumothorax, pleural effusion, and pneumonia.

Pediatric Ocular Trauma: A Clinical Perspective

Eye trauma can be devastating to a child and challenging to the clinician. These authors review common traumatic eye injuries and provide tips for the clinical evaluation of our youngest patients.