There has been a lot of focus on the appropriate evaluation of pediatric MINOR head injury (we’ve even covered the 3 month old caveat and concussions); however, let us not forget that MAJOR head injury is a serious public health…
We often instruct with absolutes. “Never let the sun set on a pleural effusion.” “You’re not dead until you’re warm and dead.” “Never intubate an asthmatic.” Well, often medical decisions exist in a much less dichotomous realm. It is great…
We all care for many children who present with fever, nausea, and vomiting. Naturally, one of our first goals is to consider severe and life-threatening conditions and, fortunately, many times these are apparent on clinical exam. Unfortunately, certain patient populations,…
Recently we discussed the use of noninvasive ventilation in kids presenting with respiratory distress. Despite enjoying procedures, I do fell good about myself when I have been able to avoid intubating a child. Unfortunately, that is not always possible…
We have discussed previously (in Splenic Sequestration – Be a Spleen Detective!) how being vigilant for “badness” is paramount when caring for patients with sickle cell disease. Often, the dreaded complications that we are taught to look for don’t present…
The decision to intubate a patient is, unquestionably, one of the most significant (and at times intimidating) decisions that we make. In preparation and consideration for all of the potential complications and outcomes of the intubation, it is common to…
I love fireworks! It is fun to say “Ooh and Ah!” while pontificating the amazing chemical reactions that are being displayed (ok, it is a little Geeky, but true). Magnesium is quite brilliant when ignited. Interestingly, the use of magnesium…