Category Environmental

Electrical Injury

Electricity

Children are often more susceptible to environmental exposures and injuries. We have previously discussed injuries related to submersions, heat-related illness and hyperthermia, thermal burn, and hypothermia. Essentially, no matter what environment a child is in, there is usually a potential hazard nearby.…

Hyphema

Traumatic Hyphema

Injuries to the face are commonly encountered when caring for children. We have previously reviewed several facial injury topics (see, Mandibular Fractures, Dental Trauma, Tongue Lacerations, and Eyelid Lacerations).  Eye injuries can sometimes be under appreciated, especially when there are other associated injuries. One…

Rabies

Rabies in the ED

There are many conditions that are rarely encountered, but warrant great concern due to the level of morbidity and mortality associated with them.  HSV comes to mind. RMSF is another good example.  Some of these conditions were once more common,…

Road Rash

Road Rash Friction Injury

Certainly, pediatric rashes can be a challenge (and we have discussed my “Approach to the Pediatric Rash” previously).  One “rash,” however, deserves particular attention as it is not a Rash at all: it is a Burn!  Let’s remain vigilant for…

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Ticks are disgusting (no offense ticks). They engorge themselves on our blood, becoming bloated sloth-like sacs of our serum. While that is certainly not appealing, what makes them most offensive is their tendency to transmit awful diseases to us.  These…

Liquid Nicotine

Vape Danger

Tobacco smoke is a health hazard for children (and us children of all ages).  We know this.  So it seems like movement away for cigarettes is good for everyone; however, the thirst for nicotine is still quite strong and is…

Agitation

Chemical Restraint

The world can be a scary and dangerous place, but few things are as dangerous as an acutely agitated patient in your emergency department.  While violent adults in the ED seem nearly commonplace (although still deserve provider’s vigilance), the agitated…