Pediatric emergency care
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Pediatric emergency care · Jul 2007
Prospective study of sudden-onset asthma exacerbations in children.
Sudden-onset asthma exacerbations among adults have more rapid treatment responses than do slower-onset exacerbations. We hypothesized that a similar pattern would be evident in children presenting to the emergency department (ED) with an asthma exacerbation. ⋯ Patients with sudden-onset exacerbations had similar acute asthma severity as those with slower-onset exacerbations but had shorter ED length of stay and were less likely to be admitted to the hospital, suggesting a more rapid response to treatment.
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Pediatric emergency care · Jul 2007
Releasing of zipper-entrapped foreskin: a novel nonsurgical technique.
This report describes a novel technique of releasing the zipper-entrapped penile skin. The thin blade of a small screwdriver is inserted between the outer and inner faceplates of the zip fastener, and twisting movement is made toward the median bar. ⋯ This technique was used in 12 children and was found to be safe, effective, simple, painless, and nontraumatic. This can be done by attending pediatrician even in nonhospital settings without resorting to surgical help.
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Pediatric emergency care · Jul 2007
Issues associated with dog bite injuries in children and adolescents assessed at the emergency department.
The aim of this study was to determine the pattern of dog bites seen at the emergency department of a university hospital. The information will be used to plan prevention and enhance management strategies. ⋯ In mammalian attacks, canines are most commonly involved. Most injuries are trivial, and the limbs are usually involved. However, younger children are at higher risk of facial injuries. Extent of pain and adverse psychological impacts are typically not documented in the emergency assessment.
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Pediatric emergency care · Jul 2007
Case ReportsSpontaneous pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and epidural emphysema presenting as neck pain suspicious for meningitis.
Pneumomediastinum and epidural pneumatosis are rare findings. Simultaneous occurrence of spontaneous pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumopericardium, and epidural emphysema is particularly rare. These findings are even more unusual when there is no history of trauma, underlying pathology, or history of asthma. ⋯ It is important to recognize the clinical signs and symptoms of air trapping in various tissues and investigate appropriately. This may prevent potentially life-threatening complications. Subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and epidural emphysema associated with spontaneous bilateral pneumothoraces represents an extremely rare presentation.
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Spontaneous esophageal rupture (Boerhaave syndrome) is uncommon in children. Delayed or missed diagnosis can lead to poor outcomes in terms of morbidity and mortality. To highlight the importance of early recognition and management of spontaneous esophageal rupture in children, we report a case of a 16-year-old boy who presented in the emergency department with acute chest pain after episodes of vomiting.