Fluid resuscitation of acute hypovolemic hypoperfusion states in pediatrics

Understanding neonatal bowel obstruction: building knowledge to advance practice

Providing care to neonates with bowel obstruction requires a basic understanding of gastrointestinal (GI) anatomy and functional landmarks as well as knowledge of the pathophysiology associated with intestinal blockage. Early recognition and prompt diagnosis necessitate astute assessment of common presenting symptoms and accurate interpretation of diagnostic investigations. Initial medical management is focused primarily on gastric decompression and maintenance of fluid and electrolyte balance. This article describes features of the neonatal GI tract and discusses common causes of neonatal bowel obstruction.

Emergency presentations of patients with methylmalonic acidemia, propionic acidemia and branched chain amino acidemia (MSUD)

The charts of 16 patients with branched chain amino acidemia (MSUD) who had 48 emergency room (ER) visits, of 10 patients with propionic acidemia (PA) who had 57 ER visit, and of 13 patients with methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) who had 154 ER visits, were reviewed retrospectively for the most common clinical presentations, physical and laboratory findings. The most common clinical presentation was acute or chronic vomiting and the most common physical finding was dehydration. When hypoglycemia was found, the mental status of 55% of patients with MSUD and MMA and 20% of patients with PA, was alert. Mixed acid/base disturbance, i.e. alkalosis caused by vomiting mixed with metabolic acidosis caused by the disease, was present in 30% of MSUD, in 33% of PA, and 45% of MMA. There was no relationship between acidosis detected by the blood pH and mental status of the patients. A good correlation between base excess < -5 and serum bicarbonate < 21 mmol/l was found. Blood cultures were positive for bacteria and fungi in 15% of the visits with MSUD, in 23% with PA, and 3% with MMA. Patients with positive blood cultures did not necessarily have a temperature > 39 degrees C nor hypothermia. The results suggest that the mental status of the patients should not detract the ER physician from obtaining blood pH, gases and glucose and in all instances a blood culture should be secured, even if the patient has no fever.

Transport and stabilization of the pediatric trauma patient

The incidence of pediatric trauma continues to increase, presenting at almost every emergency department. Life-threatening injuries need to be cared for immediately, in whatever institution the patient presents. For severely injured children, optimal care is ultimately provided at specialized trauma centers. Physicians caring for trauma patients in less specialized institutions must be aware of who to transfer to a trauma center. Effective stabilization and timely, safe transport are vital to reduce further injury.

Evaluation, treatment, and transport of pediatric patients with shock

Early recognition and correct treatment of shock remain the most important keys to preventing the death and disability frequently caused by this condition in children. The pediatrician plays a vital role in this process and in referral of the patient for transport to tertiary care centers, where shock is best managed. The transport environment creates special challenges in initial stabilization and ongoing treatment of shock. Discussion centers on clinical clues to recognition, on simple measures available to increase tissue oxygenation, and on the issues of pretransport and transport treatment. Support of airway and breathing, vascular access, and correct fluid therapy remain the cornerstones of successful treatment.