Category Critical Care

Avoid Oxygen Desats

  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…

Acute Chest Syndrome

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…

Noninvasive Ventilation

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…

Magnesium for Severe Asthma

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…

Prolonged QTc and Submersion Injuries

For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere, summer is in full swing!  Naturally, as we celebrate with out families, we know the number of pediatric injuries we care for in our EDs will increase significantly.  One that we unfortunately…

Aspirated Foreign Body

We all have great respect for potential airway disasters. The bouncy ball that lodges in the kids airway leading to respiratory arrest is commonly spoken off and often contemplated.  We are ever ready to perform transtracheal ventilation in instances such…

Heat-Related Illness

With the subtly that only Mother Nature has, the days in the Northern Hemisphere have started to get longer and become consistently warmer.  This, along with the fast approaching end of the school year, heralds the beginning of summer time. …