Sometimes it seems like the intestines are connected to every organ system as children present with abdominal complaints related to so many conditions. These can be intra-abdominal issues (ex, CRAP, Appendicitis, Intussusception, Hirschsprung’s) as well as extra-abdominal issues (ex, Strep Pharyngitis, Pneumonia, Testicular Torsion, HSP). Unquestionably, the…
“Abdominal pain” is ubiquitous in the pediatric acute care setting. It’s list of potential causes are extensive and diverse. We have discussed many of these causes from acute (ex, appendicitis, intussusception, pancreatitis) to chronic (ex, CRAP). We have also discussed causes…
Syncope occurring in children is often encountered. We have previously discussed the basics of pediatric syncope and even touched on some interesting entities related to syncope (ex, Hair Grooming, Breath Holding Spell, Brugada, Prolonged qTC, Sinus Bradycardia, and Heat Related Illness).…
Many of the PedEM Morsels accentuate the need to be vigilant, although reasonable, and guard against the significant pathology that may present in a benign manner. Often this merely requires maintaining an “active” mind when evaluating children. The “active” mind…
Air may be considered the sine qua non of life (without it there is nothing); however, we prefer to have it in specific areas, like our lungs. Finding air where it isn’t supposed to be can often portend serious medical…
We have previously discussed Chronic Recurrent Abdominal Pain. Certainly, this is not a sensational topic, yet it is one that is encountered often and can not only derail your shift, but may also obscure our view of the true underlying,…
Poisonings certainly get practitioners’ attention; but some may present in a very subtle manner, making our task quite challenging. Lead Poisoning does not often present with acute symptoms either, making it even more difficult to think of, but it is…
Intussusception is a common concern that we manage when faced with a child with abdominal pain and/or vomiting. We have discussed multiple aspects of the evaluation and management of intussusception (ex, Intussusception, Intussusception and HSP, Change in Mental Status, and…
The Ped EM Morsels have discussed several medical myths (ex, Atropine, Morphine for Appendicitis, IV Fluids for rehydration), but remember that “myths” were not born from madness. Previously, physicians were not maliciously inventing erroneous plans; they were doing what was deemed most…
We have discussed pediatric trauma several times within the PedEM Morsels (Splenic Injury, Head Injury, Pneumothorax, etc), because it is often a source of trepidation, confusion and concern. This often leads to over-reliance on ionizing radiation to help alleviate concern. Naturally, this is…
