Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is an inherited disorder that affects nearly 100,000 Americans. Since its discovery 101 years ago, SCD has fallen largely under the academic jurisdiction of hematology. Today, a small group of clinicians/researchers/scientists (mostly hematologists) works to add to the body of sickle cell literature

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The issue of serious bacterial illness in children is an ongoing debate and new articles are emerging that help shed some light on the topic. This journal club will review lab tests that are better indicators of serious bacterial illness, how to reduce the rate of blood culture contaminants, the significance of the clinical examination for the diagnosis of meningitis and whether or not a routine lumbar puncture is necessary in children less than 18 months of age with a first time, simple febrile seizure.

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Managing diabetes, in particular DKA, is a staple in the practice of emergency medicine. The pancreas hasn’t changed since we discovered that it secreted insulin. So, the treatment has no reason to change either. Right?

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Pediatric dehydration continues to be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality throughout the world and is a frequent issue encountered in the Emergency Department.   Traditionally, IV fluid hydration has been the mainstay of therapy.   However, it is often difficult to obtain intravenous (IV) access in children who have small, collapsed veins, and therefore, alternative therapies are being investigated. 

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While on a recent shift in the ED, I was asked a familiar question by a weekend warrior who had suffered an ankle sprain while playing basketball - “What can I do to get back on the court sooner, Doc?” After explaining the usual RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) my persistent patient asked “What else can I do? What about these platelet rich plasma (“PRP”) injections I hear about?”

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Whether you listen in the car, the gym, or while cleaning the house, reviewing current topics in emergency medicine has never been more convenient than with today’s range of educational podcasts. We’ve pulled together the essential information on ten popular programs so that you know where you should be tuning in to keep up to date. Read more