In Part One of this two-part series, we discussed re-emerging infectious threats that may creep into our EDs initially unnoticed. We continue from Part One with the rest of the dreaded thirteen, from varicella through meningococcus

Now let us take a moment to ponder the issues that can arise when an artery finds its origin incorrectly in an adjacent structure – Anomalous Left Coronary Artery from the Pulmonary Artery (ALCAPA).

Learn the key historical and examination pearls to help pick up this sometimes elusive diagnosis, what the value of serum ketones are in the diagnosis of DKA, how to assess the severity of DKA to guide management, how to avoid the dreaded cerebral edema that all too often complicates DKA, how to best adjust fluids and insulin during treatment, which kids can go home, which kids can go to the floor and which kids need to be transferred to a Pediatric ICU.

A 3-year-old male presents with his mom with chief complaint of vomiting and recurrent abdominal pain. Her son will intermittently cry and refuse to eat, followed by normal activity. His appetite has been decreased. VS are normal. Physical exam reveals a patient who appears stated age, nontoxic, and playful. Your physical exam, including abdomen and GU, is normal. The mom rushes out several minutes later and notifies you that her son is crying and holding his abdomen. What’s the diagnosis, and what’s your next step in your evaluation and treatment?

Airway management in the ED is a complex interplay of patient factors, clinical illness status, and provider factors that through our thorough training we become proficient at navigating. One topic that deserves specific attention is the notion of a Difficult Airway.

Most newborns will have some jaundice.  Most jaundice is benign. So, how can we sort through the various presentations and keep our newborns safe?

For this edition of EM in 5, Anna brings you Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease!

Childhood rashes are not my favorite topic or condition to contemplate. Learn more about this unique condition, especially during this time of year.