The Cribsiders

Care of the Well Baby in the Newborn Nursery Kim Schamel, medical director of the Newborn Assessment Nursery at Washington University/St. Louis Children’s Hospital, walks us through newborn nursery 101! She gives pointers for the newborn physical exam, counseling strategies for safe sleep, gives us a framework for evaluating neonatal weight loss, and so much more. From the golden hour to the discharge talk and everything in between, she reminds us that when it comes to healthy babies, just feed them, love them, and don’t shake them! 

Dr. Emmanuel Alalade, a pediatric anesthesiologist at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, dives deep into the world of pediatric pain management. He shares strategies for assessing pain in children, discussing observational cues and effective pain scales. Dr. Alalade emphasizes the importance of multimodal approaches, combining medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, while also outlining non-pharmacologic techniques such as distraction and VR. He addresses the racial disparities in pain treatment and advocates for informed, compassionate care for young patients.

Dr. Basil Williams, a combined ocular oncologist and vitreoretinal disease specialist at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, shares invaluable insights on Retinoblastoma. He discusses the role of smartphones in early detection through white reflex, emphasizing that leukocoria should always be treated as Retinoblastoma until proven otherwise. The conversation also highlights recent advancements in genetic testing and AI diagnostics, as well as the importance of regular screening. Dr. Williams stresses the need for urgent intervention and effective communication with families to ensure better outcomes.

What does Long COVID really look like in kids and teens? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Peter Rowe from Johns Hopkins to unpack the recognition, diagnosis and treatment of Long COVID in pediatric settings. From hallmark symptoms like post-exertional malaise and brain fog, to risk factors, disparities, and treatment strategies, Dr. Rowe shares practical insights to help clinicians better recognize and care for young people living with Long COVID.

Dr. Rida Hasan, a pediatric hematologist and transfusion medicine expert from the University of Washington, shares her invaluable insights into the fascinating world of pediatric transfusions. She discusses why Type & Screen tests have a short expiration and unpacks the complexities of massive transfusion protocols in critical care. Rida also dives into the specifics of blood testing, the importance of donor demographics, and innovative practices that enhance patient safety. Join her as she navigates the challenges and joys of transfusion medicine!

Dr. Michelle Starr, a pediatric nephrologist at Indiana University, dives into the intricacies of renal tubular acidosis (RTA). She discusses distinguishing between RTA types and shares vital diagnostic clues specific to pediatric care. The conversation covers the impact of high-chloride IV fluids, urine gap measurements, and the significance of electrolyte levels in treatment. With clinical anecdotes and case studies, Dr. Starr emphasizes the importance of collaboration with nephrologists for effective management of RTA in children, enhancing understanding of acid-base balance.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Eileen Rayner, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Duke and leader of their Pediatric ENT Program, shares her expertise on laryngomalacia. She explains how to recognize its signs and the importance of scoping in diagnosis. The discussion highlights effective management strategies, including when surgical intervention may be necessary. Listeners will appreciate her insights on balancing a medical career with personal life and the critical techniques for assessing respiratory sounds in infants.

New pediatric interns share their heartfelt experiences and advice for navigating intern year. They discuss the emotional ups and downs of patient care, the significance of teamwork, and the role of innovative technology like digital stethoscopes in boosting diagnostic confidence. Practical tips for conducting effective examinations on children, pre-charting strategies, and managing relationships during residency are also highlighted. Plus, there’s a reminder to stay grounded by connecting with family and pursuing personal interests!

Pediatric urologist Carmen Tong, Director of Pediatric Robotic Surgery at Children's of Alabama, brings a wealth of knowledge about enuresis. She delves into the complexities of nighttime bedwetting and daytime urinary incontinence, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis and emotional support for young patients. With insights on behavioral modifications, cognitive therapy, and innovative treatments like bed alarms and medications, Tong highlights evidence-based approaches to help families navigate these challenges while addressing social disparities in healthcare access.

Dr. William Bo Mitchell, an expert in pediatric hematology at CHAM Children's Hospital, dives into the complexities of Immune Thrombocytopenia (ITP). He discusses how to evaluate bleeding symptoms, shares a compelling patient story, and highlights the nuances of diagnosing ITP in children. Listeners learn about treatment options, from steroids to second-line therapies, and the importance of individualized care. With insights on triggers and the role of empathy in medicine, you'll feel empowered the next time you encounter bruising.