Unit 1574: Pediatric Emergency Medicine

1. Introduction to Pediatric Emergency Medicine

• Overview of pediatric emergency medicine
• Unique physiological and anatomical considerations in children
• Common pediatric emergency conditions
• Principles of care and family-centered approach

2. Pediatric Assessment and Triage

• Pediatric assessment triangle (appearance, work of breathing, circulation)
• Primary and secondary survey techniques
• Vital signs norms by age
• Pediatric triage systems (e.g., Emergency Severity Index, Paediatric Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale)
• Prioritization of care in pediatric emergencies

3. Respiratory Emergencies in Pediatrics

• Common respiratory emergencies: asthma exacerbation, bronchiolitis, croup
• Pathophysiology and clinical presentation
• Assessment strategies (respiratory rate, effort, oxygenation)
• Management protocols: oxygen therapy, medications (bronchodilators, steroids), airway management
• Indications for advanced interventions

4. Pediatric Trauma and Injury Management

• Pediatric trauma assessment and stabilization
• Head injuries: recognition of concussion, intracranial hemorrhage
• Fractures: identification, immobilization, and pain management
• Burns: types, assessment of burn severity, fluid resuscitation
• Transport considerations and multidisciplinary care

5. Sepsis and Infectious Diseases in Pediatrics

• Recognition of sepsis and septic shock in children
• Common infectious diseases in emergency settings
• Diagnostic evaluation: laboratory and imaging
• Management: antimicrobial therapy, fluid resuscitation, supportive care
• Prevention and vaccination importance

6. Pediatric Resuscitation and Advanced Life Support

• Differences between adult and pediatric resuscitation
• Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) algorithms
• Airway management and ventilation techniques
• Vascular access and medication dosing in pediatrics
• Post-resuscitation care

7. Pediatric Procedural Sedation and Analgesia

• Principles and indications for sedation and analgesia
• Sedation agents: pharmacology and safety profiles
• Monitoring during sedation: vital signs, sedation scales
• Complications and emergency management
• Documentation and consent considerations

8. Pediatric Psychosocial Emergencies

• Identification of child abuse and neglect
• Mental health crises: anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation
• Communication strategies with children and families
• Reporting obligations and safeguarding policies
• Multidisciplinary intervention approaches

9. Environmental Emergencies in Pediatrics

• Poisoning: common toxins, assessment, and management
• Drowning: pathophysiology and emergency care
• Hypothermia and heat-related illnesses: recognition and treatment
• Prevention strategies and education

10. Ethical and Legal Issues in Pediatric Emergency Medicine

• Informed consent and assent in pediatrics
• Confidentiality and privacy considerations
• Ethical dilemmas: end-of-life decisions, refusal of treatment
• Legal responsibilities and documentation
• Cultural competence and family dynamics