Dr. Chris Horvat, a pediatric sepsis expert from Pittsburgh, dives into the complexities of diagnosing and treating pediatric sepsis. He discusses the urgency of timely antibiotic administration and the nuances of fluid resuscitation strategies. The conversation also touches on the controversial role of vitamin C in treatment and explores emerging therapies like corticosteroids. Horvat emphasizes the use of the innovative Phoenix criteria to track patient progress and the need to address health disparities, particularly among non-English-speaking families.

Dr. Chris Horvat, a pediatric intensivist and informaticist at UPMC Children's Hospital, joins the discussion on pediatric sepsis and the innovative Phoenix criteria. The conversation dives into the complexities of individualized treatment for pediatric patients, sharing insights from real-life cases. Dr. Horvat emphasizes the critical importance of early recognition of sepsis, particularly in emergency care. They also explore the evolving definitions of sepsis, highlighting the new point-based system that improves diagnostic precision.

Does thinking about myocarditis make your chest hurt? In this episode, we have a fantastic heart-to-heart with Dr. Jessica Laks (Heart Failure and Transplant at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital). Together, we dive into the complexities of myocarditis - how to recognize the signs, how to triage patients, and what tests to order. Sit back, relax, and keep an open heart as she drops the heart facts about myocarditis.

Dr. Scott Hadland, Chief of Adolescent Medicine at Mass General for Children and a Harvard professor, dives deep into the opioid crisis affecting teens. He highlights the staggering statistic of adolescent overdoses and shares practical tools for addressing Opioid Use Disorder (OUD). The discussion emphasizes the importance of routine screenings and harm reduction strategies, particularly amid the fentanyl crisis. He also addresses barriers to prescribing buprenorphine and the need for compassionate conversations, equipping families with vital knowledge to navigate these challenges.

Dr. Hannah Keppler, a pediatrician in the Bronx and co-director of the Family Weight Management Program, shares her expertise on managing patients with Down Syndrome. She discusses the multidisciplinary approach needed for initial evaluations of newborns with Trisomy 21. Listeners will learn about vital screening tests, the misconception around routine X-rays for atlantoaxial instability, and the importance of early interventions. The conversation also touches on addressing racial inequalities in healthcare access for children with developmental delays.

Crossover Round 2! The Cribsiders reunite Pediatrics On Call hosts, Dr. David Hill and Dr. Joanna Parga-Belinkie, to recap the AAP 2024 conference plenaries. Join us as we discuss pediatricians as heroes, the importance of early literacy, how to approach social media and youth mental health, congenital syphilis, and health policies. 

Get ready for an influx of practice-changing pearls as the Cribsiders team shares what we learned at the AAP 2024 conference in Orlando, FL. Learn how to diagnose and manage GERD, common gynecologic disorders, murmurs, and hypertriglyceridemia. Find out what’s new in the newborn nursery and how to counsel on marijuana use. 

Dr. Kelsey Klaas, a pediatrician from the Mayo Clinic specializing in adolescent autonomic disorders, unpacks the challenges of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). She shares insights on diagnosing POTS, the significance of teamwork in treatment, and managing symptoms through practical strategies. The conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding dysautonomia, the role of hydration and exercise, and the complexities of coexisting conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. It's an enlightening discussion packed with expert advice for families navigating this condition.

Join us for our latest episode - a conversation on newborn care essentials that can sometimes become a tricky topic: the hepatitis B vaccine and vitamin K injection. With the expertise of Dr. Ha Nguyen, we’ll explore why these tiny treatments pack a big punch, and how you can ease parental fears with facts. We’ll break down the concerns so you can build up confidence in your conversations with new parents.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Julie Leonard, a pediatric care specialist from Nationwide Children’s, and Dr. Dan Corwin, an expert in pediatric trauma from CHOP, delve into managing cervical spine injuries in children. They shed light on the innovative PECARN clinical decision rule, emphasizing its relevance in trauma assessment. The duo also shares invaluable insights on physical examinations, minimizing radiation exposure, and adapting protocols for young patients. With a blend of personal stories and clinical expertise, they offer a refreshing take on pediatric emergency care.