Search

Free play is essential for children's development and for their physical, mental, and social health. Opportunities to engage in outdoor free play—and risky play in particular—have declined significantly in recent years, in part because safety measures have sought to prevent all play-related injuries rather than focusing on serious and fatal injuries. Risky play is defined by thrilling and exciting forms of free play that involve uncertainty of outcome and a possibility of physical injury. Proponents of risky play differentiate "risk" from "hazard" and seek to reframe perceived risk as an opportunity for situational evaluation and personal development. This statement weighs the burden of play-related injuries alongside the evidence in favour of risky play, including its benefits, risks, and nuances, which can vary depending on a child's developmental stage, ability, and social and medical context. Approaches are offered to promote open, constructive discussions with families and organizations. Paediatricians are encouraged to think of outdoor risky play as one way to help prevent and manage common health problems such as obesity, anxiety, and behavioural issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Access to early phase trials for children with relapsed, refractory or progressive (RRPD) cancer is limited in Canada. Patients and families face barriers to access trials, which are poorly understood. The aims of this study were to assess availability of early phase trials and examine the impact of distance from home to study centre on trial enrolment among paediatric oncology patients with RRPD. Methods Oncology patients ≤18 years at diagnosis who later had RRPD were identified retrospectively via registry at the only quaternary paediatric oncology centre in British Columbia (BC). We determined if distance to home, as calculated using geocoding software, was predictive of trial offer or enrolment. Results Between January 2015 and July 2021, 266 patients experienced 396 RRPD events. Seventy-five patients (28.2%) were eligible for an early phase trial at least once. At first eligible event, 61 patients (22.9%) were offered trial (median age 11.8 years; 69.0% male; 46.0% with CNS tumour) and thirty patients (11.3%) enrolled. Distance was not associated with odds of offer (OR 1.01, CI 0.98 to 1.05) or enrolment (OR 0.99, CI 0.95 to 1.03) on univariate or multivariable analysis adjusted for sex and disease (OR 0.93, CI 0.86 to 1.00). For offered patients, 2-year event-free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) were 39.1% (CI 28.0% to 54.8%) and 51.8% (CI 39.9% to 67.2%), respectively. EFS/OS did not differ with distance or enrolment, but varied by disease (EFS P = 0.002, OS P < 0.0001). Conclusions Children in BC with cancer and RRPD have limited access to early phase trials. Distance was not predictive of enrolment, suggesting that families travel to access therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common physical disability in Canadian children. The comprehensive care of ambulatory children with CP functioning at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) level I and II was covered in a previous practice point. This companion document focuses on the care of children with CP functioning at GMFCS levels III to V. Children functioning at GMFCS level III and IV mobilize using devices such as a walker, canes, or powered mobility, while those functioning at GMFCS level V require assisted mobility, such as a manual wheelchair. An overview of key concepts in early detection, rehabilitation services, and therapeutic options for children with CP at these levels is provided, along with practical resources to assist health surveillance for paediatricians caring for this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Pain affects all children and youth, yet acute and procedural pain remains undertreated in Canadian hospitals. To improve pain management practices in paediatric hospitals, it is necessary to understand how healthcare professionals (HCPs) wish for educational interventions to be designed to improve their pain management practice. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 HCPs between October and December 2020. Snowball sampling was used to first recruit interested members from the hospital's Pediatric Pain Management Committee. Interviews were conducted per participant preference and included Zoom, telephone, and in-person interviews. Recruitment ceased when data were determined sufficiently rich. A thematic analysis of verbatim transcripts and reflexive field notes were used to create a data set focused on knowledge mobilization and clinical education. Results Three core themes were identified: (a) the necessity for just-in-time education for HCPs; (b) the availability of clinical pain champions to educate staff; and (c) the provision of resources to educate children and their families about available pain management interventions. Just-in-time education included suggestions for in-service training, hands-on training, and regular updates on the latest research. Pain champions, including clinical nurse educators, were stressed as being important in motivating staff to improve their pain management practices. Participants noted the lack of resources for patient and family education on pain management and suggested providing more multimodal resources and educational opportunities. Conclusion Having local champions introduce pain management initiatives and just-in-time education positively impacts the implementation climate, which also helps HCPs provide evidence-based education and resources to patients and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Asthma is a chronic lung condition that can be exacerbated when triggered by viruses. Pandemic public health restrictions aimed to reduce COVID-19 transmission indirectly effected other circulating viruses. This study assessed the impact of the pandemic and associated public health measures on acute paediatric asthma across four tertiary sites in three Canadian provinces. We queried whether pandemic-related changes would impair preventive care and delay presentation to care, increasing asthma exacerbation severity. Methods This retrospective study compared the frequency of acute care access and severity of presentation to emergency departments (ED) for acute asthma to four tertiary care children's hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic (from March 17, 2020 to June 30, 2021) to a pre-lockdown control period (July 1, 2018 to March 16, 2020). Data was subjected to interrupted time series and Chi-square analysis. Results Our study included 26,316 acute asthma visits to ED. Sites experienced a 63% to 89% reduction in acute asthma visits during the pandemic, compared with pre-lockdown controls, and a 17% to 85% reduction in asthma, that is out of proportion as a fraction of all-cause ED visits. For asthma, there was no difference in severity measured by rate of ward admission or rate of Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) admission. Conclusions Public health measures appear to have resulted in a specific protective association on acute asthma with reduced acute care utilization over and above the reduction in all-cause presentations, without an increase in severity upon presentation. Our study indicates an importance to antiviral public health and engineering strategies to reduce viral transmission and thereby asthma morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medical cannabis (MC) may offer therapeutic benefits for children with complex neurological conditions and chronic diseases. In Canada, parents, and caregivers frequently report encountering barriers when accessing MC for their children. These include negative preconceived notions about risks and benefits, challenges connecting with a knowledgeable healthcare provider (HCP), the high cost of MC products, and navigating MC product shortages. In this manuscript, we explore several of these barriers and provide recommendations to decision-makers to enable a family-centered and evidence-based approach to MC medicine and research for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Children living with a tracheostomy have among the most complex medical care needs in Canada. The focus of this study was to gain a contemporary understanding of key aspects of these children's medical journeys. Methods We conducted a qualitative constructivist grounded theory study using semi-structured focus groups with parents whose children are living in the community with a tracheostomy. Parents were recruited from the Stollery Children's Hospital Tracheostomy Clinic, which serves a geographically wide and diverse population. Results Three focus groups were completed, including a total of 12 participants. Key themes leading up to tracheostomy related to contextual understanding, experiences of inclusion, and perceptions of proportionality. Parents discussed the preparedness for how a tracheostomy would affect their child, their own involvement in recovery, and the education needed for their child's medical care. Navigating hospital units related to inconsistencies in care, accommodations of families' needs, and confidence in care received. Finally, living in the community was the focus of much of the participants' discussions including coping with system-related issues, limited homecare and medical support, cost of care, and connections with the broader community of parents of children with complex medical needs. All themes encircled the family's deeply felt responsibility to care for their child. Conclusions From both patient- and family-centered care perspectives, there exist individual and systemic issues related to the care delivery for children with a tracheostomy. It is in particular in the community where there is a severe deficiency of support afforded to these children and their families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Increasingly, laboratories flag low serum alkaline phosphatase (sALP) that are age-and sex-specific in paediatrics. The aim of this study was to report clinical manifestations of paediatric patients with age-and sex-specific low sALP, thereby increasing awareness of its potential aetiologies. Methods This retrospective Canadian tertiary care paediatric hospital study assessed all sALP of ambulatory patients aged less than 18 years from 2015 to 2017. The hospital used a Beckman Coulter AU assay to measure sALP and compared values to the Canadian age-and sex-specific reference intervals from CALIPER. All children who had at least one subnormal age-and sex-specific sALP were evaluated. A review of medical charts of included patients was performed and demographic characteristics, medical history and diagnosis were collected, and categorized under groups of medical disorders. Results Of 11,874 included patients, 1,001 patients (9.2%) had low sALP. Of those, 48% (485/1,001) had transient low sALP activity and 9.6% (96/1,001) had persistently low sALP. Prolonged immobilization and inflammatory bowel disease represented the main aetiologies for persistently low sALP. Interestingly, 13.5% (13/96) of patients with persistently low sALP had no apparent aetiology. Conclusions Our results report aetiologies of low sALP in a Canadian paediatric population using age-and sex-specific Canadian reference ranges. This study highlights that healthcare providers should be aware that a low sALP may have clinical significance and should be repeated if warranted based on further clinical assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While paediatric care providers are often the first point of contact for children or youth experiencing mental health challenges, they may lack the resources (e.g. access to a multidisciplinary team) or training to adequately identify or manage such problems. This joint statement describes the key roles and competencies required to assess and address child and youth mental health problems, and the factors that optimize outcomes in this age group. Evidence-informed guidance on screening for and discussing mental health concerns with young people and families is provided. Preventive and therapeutic interventions with demonstrated efficacy in community care settings are discussed. This foundational statement also focuses on the changes to medical education, health systems, and health policy that are needed to improve clinical practice and advocacy efforts in Canada, including appropriate remuneration models, stepped-care approaches, targeted government funding, and professional training and education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Innovative therapeutic approaches are needed to alleviate the burden of life-limiting, rare, and chronic conditions affecting children, adolescents, and young adults (CAYA). This includes a need for improved access to both clinical research and to non-approved or off-label therapies, together with, ultimately, more therapies achieving regulatory approval in Canada. The single patient study (SPS), also known as an open label individual patient (OLIP) study, was introduced by Health Canada to open access to non-marketed drugs where a clinical trial is not readily available, but the drug is considered too investigational to be managed on a standard Special Access Program. SPS is designed for patients who have a serious or life-threatening condition and have exhausted available treatment options. Our report summarizes this relatively new development in the Canadian regulatory environment and highlights the opportunities and challenges as identified by regulators, pharmaceutical representatives, academic researchers, and patient/parent advocates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With 20% of Canadians reporting a mother tongue other than English or French, it is not uncommon for health professionals and patients to be proficient in different languages. When a physician and patient cannot properly communicate, there is potential for misunderstanding, which can lead to poor clinical outcomes and hospital readmission. Professional interpretation services are associated with improved communication, health care use, clinical outcomes, and satisfaction with care. Using untrained or ad hoc interpreters—including family members—has been shown to increase errors of omission, substitution, editorialization, and addition. Children and youth are not sufficiently developmentally mature to act as interpreters in health care. Using children and youth as interpreters in health care settings places them in an inappropriate and potentially difficult situation that may have lasting negative effects on both their own mental health and their relationships with other family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is the leading cause of disease-related death in children, adolescents, and young adults beyond the newborn period in North America. Improving survival rates for patients with hard-to-cure cancer remains a challenge. One approach that has gained particular traction is 'precision oncology', whereby next-generation sequencing is used to identify genomic or transcriptomic changes that can help clarify the diagnosis, refine prognosis, define an underlying genetic cause, or identify a unique treatment target for a patient's cancer. In this primer, we provide a brief overview of the evolution of precision paediatric oncology, its current application to clinical oncology practice, and its future potential as a foundational approach to paediatric oncology care in Canada and around the world. We also address the many challenges and limitations inherent to the implementation of precision oncology as the standard of care, including ethical and economic considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common food allergies in the first years of life, with worldwide prevalence estimated to range from 2% to 5%. While the majority of children with CMA will eventually develop tolerance to cow's milk proteins (it is estimated that >75% of children with CMA develop tolerance to cow's milk proteins by the age of 3 years, and >90% develop tolerance by the age of 6 years), the selection of an appropriate cow's milk (CM) alternative for those with CMA is vital to ensure adequate growth and development during childhood. The increasing number of CM alternative products on the commercial market with markedly different nutritional content and micronutrient fortification adds a layer of complexity that can be challenging for both families and clinicians to navigate. This article aims to provide guidance and clarity to Canadian paediatricians and primary care clinicians on recommending the most appropriate, safe, and nutritionally optimal CM alternatives for individuals with CMA, and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health concerns affecting Canadian children and adolescents. The Canadian Paediatric Society has developed two position statements that summarize current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of anxiety disorders. Both statements offer evidence-informed guidance to support paediatric health care providers (HCPs) making decisions around the care of children and adolescents with these conditions. The objectives of Part 1, which focuses on assessment and diagnosis, are to: (1) review the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of anxiety disorders and (2) describe a process for assessment of anxiety disorders. Specific topics are reviewed, including prevalence, differential diagnosis, co-occurring conditions, and the process of assessment. Approaches are offered for standardized screening, history-taking, and observation. Associated features and indicators that distinguish anxiety disorders from developmentally appropriate fears, worries, and anxious feelings are considered. Note that when the word 'parent' (singular or plural) is used, it includes any primary caregiver and every configuration of family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background COVID-19 continues to disproportionately impact families of children with developmental disabilities (DD). There is an urgent need to understand these families' experiences, particularly those that face economic or social marginalization. This qualitative study sought to identify the experiences of families of children with DD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Using phenomenology, in-depth interviews (IDIs) were conducted with caregivers and health care providers of children with DD living in a large urban Canadian city. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using inductive coding methods by two independent coders. Transcripts were analyzed within and across stakeholder groups using thematic analysis. Results A total of 25 IDIs were conducted in 2020. 3 main themes and 7 sub-themes emerged related to the experiences of parents and health care providers for children with DD: families reported difficulty adhering to public health measures leading to isolation and increased parental stress; restricted access to in-person services worsened behaviour and development; and worsened household financial security in already marginalized families. Conclusions Our study demonstrates that families of children with DD have been negatively impacted by the evolving environment from the COVID-19 pandemic, and even more so in those who face social and economic challenges. Public health restrictions have impaired the daily lives of these families and our study suggests that limitations to accessing in-person services may have long-lasting impacts on the well-being of families of children with DD. It is imperative that the unique needs of these families be considered and centred for future interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This statement defines probiotics and reviews the most recent literature on their use in paediatrics. Many studies have examined the potential benefit of probiotics, but significant variation in the strains and doses of probiotics used, the patient populations studied, and in study design, have led to heterogeneous results. Present evidence suggests that probiotics can decrease mortality and lower incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm and low birth weight neonates. Probiotics may also be beneficial in reducing feeding intolerance. In infants, probiotics may be considered to reduce symptoms of colic. In older children, probiotics can be considered to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile -associated diarrhea. Probiotic supplements used in conjunction with standard therapy can help with Helicobacter pylori eradication and decrease the side effects of treatment. Lactobacillus species can be considered to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics can also be considered to help prevent atopic dermatitis and eczema. To optimize paediatric policy and practice, large, quality studies are needed to determine what types and combinations of probiotics are most efficacious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Febrile neutropenia (FN) creates concern in paediatrics due to the risk of serious bacterial infections (SBI). Protocols with empiric antibiotics designed for hematology and oncology are often applied in healthy children with FN despite lower rates of SBI in this population. This study quantifies rates of infections in presumed immunocompetent children hospitalized with suspected viral illnesses and FN. Methods This was a retrospective chart review of healthy children admitted to the Stollery Children's Hospital between 2007 and 2017 with fever, absolute neutrophil counts < 0.5 × 109/L, and viral symptoms. Primary outcomes were the incidence of SBI and bacterial pneumonia. Results Of 383 encounters reviewed, 96 admissions for 82 patients met inclusion criteria. Eighty-eight encounters (91.7%) were managed with empiric antibiotics. Viruses were identified in 42% of encounters. Three blood cultures were positive for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus and one for Coryneforms, all considered contaminants. There were three urinary tract infections and two pneumonias. Eighty-three per cent of patients had normalization of neutrophil counts, with a median neutropenia duration of 3.2 months. Follow-up diagnoses included chronic benign neutropenia of childhood (N = 17) and three rheumatologic/autoimmune conditions (N = 3). Conclusion Our results support previous findings of low rates of invasive bacterial infections in healthy children with FN. With an SBI rate of 3.1% and few patients found to have any pathologic etiology for their neutropenia, prospective studies would be valuable to evaluate the need for a practice change regarding antibiotic use in low-risk patients with suspected viral-induced neutropenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change-related extreme heat events leading to public health emergencies are increasing in Canada and expected to affect more regions, more frequently and for longer time periods. Children, city dwellers and marginalized populations are amongst the most vulnerable to morbidity and mortality related to extreme heat. Paediatricians can provide caregivers and families with advice to minimize risks as well as advocate for safer city planning and harm mitigation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Since 2016, use of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) in Nunavut for air transport in select patients has become common practice. This study examines the outcomes of patients transferred by air from the Qikiqtaaluk Region during air transport. We examined intubation rates, adverse events during transfer, and respiratory parameters at departure and upon arrival. Methods This was a retrospective review from September 2016 to December 2019 including patients under 2 years of age transferred by air on nCPAP from the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Nunavut. Results Data were collected for 40 transfers involving 34 unique patients. Six transfers were from remote communities in Nunavut to Iqaluit, and 33 transfers were from Iqaluit to CHEO. The primary outcome measure was whether the patient required intubation during transport, or urgent intubation upon arrival to CHEO. The median nCPAP setting during transport was 6 cm H2O (5–7 cm H2O) and at arrival to CHEO was 6 cm H2O (6–7 cm H2O). Six of the 33 (18.2%) patients required intubation during their hospital stay and five (15.2%) in a controlled ICU setting. There were no discernible adverse events that occurred during transport for 28 patients (84.5%). Four patients (12.1%) required a brief period of bag-mask ventilation and one patient had an episode of bradycardia. Conclusions nCPAP on air transport is a safe and useful method for providing ventilatory support to infants and young children with respiratory distress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Canada legalized recreational cannabis in October 2018. Cannabis is increasingly available in numerous forms—especially edibles—that make children vulnerable to unintentional intoxication. We sought to: determine the frequency of visits due to cannabis intoxication pre- and post-legalization; characterize the clinical features and circumstances of cannabis intoxication in the paediatric population; and create greater awareness among healthcare providers about this issue. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review of Emergency Department visits at the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (Ottawa, ON) between March 2013 and September 2020. Inclusion criteria were: age <18 years; unintentional cannabis ingestion, identified by ICD-10 codes T40.7 and X42. We assessed basic demographics, clinical signs and symptoms, exposure details, investigations, and patient disposition. Results A total of 37 patients (22 male) met inclusion criteria, mean age 5.9±3.8 years. Most visits (32; 86%) occurred in the 2-year period after legalization. Altered levels of consciousness, lethargy/somnolence, tachycardia, and vomiting were the most common presenting signs and symptoms. The majority of exposures were to edibles (28; 76%) in the home setting (30; 81%). Poison control and child protective services were involved in 19 (51%) and 22 (59%) of cases, respectively. Twelve patients (32%) required admission to the hospital, the majority of whom stayed <24 h. Conclusions Our data confirm increased paediatric hospital visits related to unintentional cannabis exposures post-legalization. Consideration of this clinical presentation is critical for acute care providers. Advocacy for safe storage strategies and appropriate enforcement of marketing/packaging legislation are imperative for public health policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Simulation is a commonly used modality to teach paediatric procedural skills, however, it is resource intensive. Which paediatric skills are best taught using simulation is not known. This study aims to examine what skills to simulate, allowing for the best use of resources in ever expanding curricula. Method We administered a questionnaire to community and hospitalist general paediatricians in Canada asking them to rate the importance of maintaining competency in each paediatric procedural skill and the frequency with which they perform the skill in their practice. Results Skills that were rated as highly important and also high frequency were: bag-mask ventilation (BMV), lumbar puncture, neonatal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), specimen procurement for infectious diseases, immunization, and ear curettage. Skills that were rated as highly important but low frequency were: paediatric CPR, intraosseous needle insertion, neonatal intubation, defibrillation, gathering specimens for evidence of child maltreatment, paediatric intubation, cervical spine immobilization, and oral/nasogastric tube placement. Conclusion Paediatric procedural skills are rated variably in terms of importance and frequency of use in general paediatric practice. Eight skills of high importance are infrequently performed and should be targeted for teaching via simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Obesity is a global public health concern. Given the widespread disruption caused by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, it is important to evaluate its impact on children with chronic health conditions. This study examines the health of paediatric patients with obesity enrolled in a tertiary hospital weight management program, before and 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This is a retrospective chart review of patients aged 2 to 17 years enrolled in a paediatric weight management clinic. Mental health outcomes (i.e. new referrals to psychologist, social work, eating disorder program, incidence of dysregulated eating, suicidal ideation, and/or self-harm) and physical health (anthropometric measures) were compared before and 1 year into the pandemic. Results Among the 334 children seen in either period, there was an increase in referrals to psychologist (12.4% versus 26.5%; P=0.002) and the composite mental health outcome (17.2% versus 30.2%; P=0.005) during the pandemic compared with pre-pandemic. In a subset of children (n=30) with anthropometric measures in both periods, there was a lower rate of decline in BMIz score (–1.5 [2.00] versus –0.3 [0.73]/year; P=0.002) and an increase in adiposity (–0.8 [4.64] versus 2.7 [5.54]%/year; P=0.043) during the pandemic. Discussion The pandemic has impacted the mental and physical health of children with obesity engaged in a weight management clinic. While our study provides evidence of a negative impact on mental health outcomes and less improvement in anthropometric measures, future research when patients return to in-person care will enable further examination of our findings with additional objective measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Screening for hypertension in children is recommended by pediatric consensus guidelines. However, current practice is unknown. We evaluated rates of blood pressure assessment and hypertension recognition in primary care. Methods This retrospective cohort study evaluated electronic medical record data from the Canadian Primary Care Sentinel Surveillance Network between 2011 and 2017. Children aged 3 to <18 years with at least one clinical encounter were included. Screening, follow-up, and hypertension recognition rates were evaluated. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistical regression were used to determine patient and provider characteristics associated with increased screening and recognition of pediatric hypertension. Results Among 378,002 children, blood pressure was documented in 33.3% of all encounters, increasing from 26.7% in 2011 to 36.2% in 2017; P=0.007. Blood pressure was documented in 76.0% of well child visits. Follow-up visits occurred within 6 months for 26.4% of children with elevated blood pressure, 57.1% of children with hypertension, and within 1 month for 7.2% of children with hypertension. Patient factors associated with increased blood pressure screening include being overweight (OR 2.15, CI 2.09 to 2.22), having diabetes (OR 1.69, CI 1.37 to 2.08), chronic kidney disease (OR 7.51, CI 6.54 to 8.62), increased social deprivation (OR 1.10, CI 1.09 to 1.11), and urban residence (OR 1.27, CI 1.15 to 1.4). Overall prevalence of hypertension was 1.9% (n=715) and of those, 5.6% (n=40) had recognized hypertension. Factors associated with increased recognition include male sex, overweight, and hyperlipidemia. Conclusions Rates of hypertension screening and recognition are low in primary care settings in Canada, suggesting pediatric hypertension should be a priority for implementation and dissemination of interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Serum sickness-like reaction (SSLR) is an acute inflammatory condition affecting predominantly children. The pathophysiology remains unclear, but drugs are considered the main trigger. Objective The aim of this study was to describe the clinical and laboratory features, triggers, and treatment modalities in children diagnosed with SSLR. Methods We conducted a 10-year retrospective cohort study including all paediatric patients (0 to 18 years old) with query SSLR referred to the Adverse Drug Reactions Clinic at the Children's Hospital of Western Ontario. Diagnostic criteria included acute skin rash plus joint inflammation with or without fever. Results We included 83 patients (47 females). Age ranged from 11 months to 12 years (mean 3.2 years). Amoxicillin was the trigger in 82.7% of patients. The mean time between the exposure to the triggering drug and the development of the symptoms was 8.5 days. Urticaria-like and Erythema multiforme-like lesions were present in 35% and 38.5% of the cases, respectively. Joint inflammation affecting hands/feet was present in 60%. Pruritus, lip/eye swelling, and fever were reported in 33, 31, and 45% of patients, respectively. The lymphocyte toxicity assay (LTA) showed incremental T-cell toxicity in 32 of 34 patients. Children that received treatment with antihistamines/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) plus oral steroids had a mean recovery time shorter than those treated only with antihistamines/NSAIDs (6 versus 8 days; P=0.09). Conclusions In our study, SSLR was mostly triggered by amoxicillin and had a mean time presentation of 8.5 days. Further prospective and well-conducted studies are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with adrenal suppression (AS), a potential side effect of glucocorticoids (GCs) may be asymptomatic, present with nonspecific signs and symptoms or with adrenal crisis. Asymptomatic AS (AAS) can only be diagnosed through screening. Identifying and treating asymptomatic patients before symptoms develop may reduce morbidity. Screening guidelines for AS are lacking. Consequently, screening practices are highly variable. Objective: To assess (1) the screening practices for and recognition of paediatric AAS among clinicians in Canada and (2) the educational impact of a 2-year surveillance program of symptomatic AS cases. Methods: Before and after a 2-year Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP) study of symptomatic AS, participants were surveyed through the CPSP. The prestudy survey was sent to 2,548 participants in March 2010 and the poststudy survey was sent to 2,465 participants in April 2013. Results: Response rates were 32% for the prestudy survey and 21% for the poststudy survey. Between the pre- and poststudy surveys, the percentage of physicians who reported routinely screening patients on GCs for AS increased from 10% to 21% and the percentage who reported having a screening policy in their office/centre increased from 6% to 11%. There was no significant change in the percentage of physicians who had diagnosed a child/youth with AAS in the preceding year. Conclusion: Frequency of screening for AAS increased following the 2-year study but remains low. Development of a clinical practice guideline should increase both awareness of asymptomatic AS among Canadian paediatricians and the identification of AAS, before symptoms develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on culturally competent care for Canadian children with low neutrophil counts, particularly in cases of mild neutropenia. It highlights the significance of understanding the Duffy null phenotype and the need to eliminate terms like 'benign ethnic neutropenia' and 'Duffy null neutropenia' from medical records to prevent pathologizing a normal condition, emphasizing the importance of providing appropriate care while acknowledging normal variations in neutrophil numbers.

Child poverty remains a persistent problem in Canada and is well known to lead to poor health outcomes. The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a cash transfer program in effect since 2016, which increased both the benefit amount and number of families eligible for the previous child benefit. While the CCB has decreased child poverty rates, not all eligible families have participated. Clinicians can play an important role in screening for uptake of the program and helping families navigate the application process through several free resources. While prior research on past programs has shown benefit of similar cash transfer programs to both child and parental outcomes (both health and social), the CCB has not yet been extensively studied. Research would be valuable in both assessing the cost effectiveness of the program, especially across different income groups, and improving implementation in hard-to-reach populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, assessment and treatment services vary widely across Canada—potentially creating inequities. To highlight this, the Preschool Autism Treatment Impact study compared children's services and outcomes in New Brunswick (NB) and Nova Scotia (NS). Diagnostic practices, service delivery models, wait times, and treatment approaches differed, as did children's 1-year outcomes and costs for families and the public sector. Considering NB and NS strengths, we suggest that an optimal system would include: rapid access to high-quality diagnostic and intervention services; adherence to research-informed practice guidelines; interventions to enhance parents' skills and self-efficacy; and measures to minimize financial burdens for families. Our results also suggest that provinces/territories must do more to ensure equitable access to effective services, including sharing and reporting on national comparative data. Canadian children with ASD deserve access to effective and consistent services, no matter where they live. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Rh sensitization occurs when Rh(D)-negative women develop anti-Rh(D) antibodies following exposure through pregnancy or transfusion. Rh disease may cause jaundice, anemia, neurological impairment, and death. It is rare in countries where Rh Immune Globulin (RhIg) is used. Canadian Rh sensitization and disease rates are unknown. Methods This survey-based study was conducted using a Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program questionnaire sent to Canadian paediatricians and paediatric subspecialists to solicit Rh disease cases from May 2016 to June 2018. Paediatricians reported Rh-positive infants ≤ 60 days of age, born to Rh-negative mothers with RhD sensitization. Results Sixty-two confirmed cases of infants affected by Rh(D) sensitization were reported across Canada. The median gestational age of neonates was term, age at presentation was 2 hours, and hemoglobin at presentation was 137.5 g/L (33 to 203 g/L). The median peak bilirubin and phototherapy duration were 280 µmol/L (92 to 771 µmol/L), and 124 hours, respectively. Thirty (48%) infants received Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) (median two doses). Seventeen (27%) received one to three simple transfusions; 10 (16%) required exchange transfusions. Six (10%) infants presented with acute bilirubin encephalopathy, and less than five presented with seizures. Fourteen mothers with affected infants were born outside of Canada. Discussion Rh disease continues to exist in Canada. Additional efforts are needed to raise awareness of Rh disease, prevent disease, and minimize sequelae when it does occur. The ongoing global burden of Rh Disease, as well as the possibility of emerging Rh immunoglobulin refusal are among factors that could be taken into consideration in future prevention efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background We assess the impact of the 2017 American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines on the prevalence of high blood pressure (BP) in generally healthy Canadian children and identify risk factors associated with high BP (elevated, stage 1, or stage 2 at a single visit). Methods A cohort of 7,387 children aged 6 to 18 years in the Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS, 2007 to 2015) had BPTru oscillometry with centiles and stages assigned using both the 2017 AAP guidelines and the 2004 Fourth Report from the National Institute of Health/National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NIH/NHLBI). Results Although both shifted upwards significantly, mean population systolic BP and diastolic BP percentiles are now 24.2 (95% confidence interval: 23.3 to 25.2) and 46.4 (45.3 to 47.6). As a result, the population prevalence of high BP increased from 4.5% (3.9 to 5.2, NIH/NHLBI) to 5.8% (5.0 to 6.6, AAP), less than in US children measured by auscultation (14.2%, 13.4 to 15.0). Children with high BP were more likely to be overweight/obese, to be exposed to prenatal/household smoking, and to have hypertriglyceridemia, without differences in dietary salt, infant breastfeeding, neonatal hospitalizations, or exercise frequency. Conclusion The 2017 AAP guidelines increase the prevalence of high BP in Canadian children; Canadian prevalence appears lower than in the USA. This may reflect differences in measurement methods or in the prevalence of childhood overweight/obesity between countries, that is, 31.1% (28.9 to 33.3) versus 40.6% (39.5 to 42.0), respectively. Those with high BP were more likely to have other cardiac risk factors, including overweight/obesity, prenatal/household smoking exposure, and hypertriglyceridemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective Opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a common and important problem in paediatric palliative care, critical care, and postoperative settings. Treatment for OIC is often ineffective and limited by enteral intake. A new class of drugs called peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonists (PAMORAs) have been shown to be effective treatments of OIC in adults, including the agents methylnaltrexone and naloxegol. Data in children are limited to several small case reports, mostly in the palliative care setting. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of methylnaltrexone and naloxegol in hospitalized children, including those with critical illness. Methods We conducted a retrospective study of all children admitted to the Stollery Children's Hospital in Edmonton (Canada) who received either methylnaltrexone or naloxegol for OIC. The primary outcome was median time to first bowel movement (BM) after the first dose of PAMORA. Results A total of 27 patients were included in the study. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed the median time to the first BM after the first dose of PAMORA was 15.5 hours. Seventeen (63%) patients had laxation within 24 hours of first dose. No significant adverse events were observed. Conclusion This study is the largest to date to evaluate efficacy and safety of PAMORAs in children. Future studies should be prospective and include larger numbers of patients with critical illness and postoperative OIC as indications for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Survivors of extremely preterm birth are at risk of re-hospitalization but risk factors in the Canadian population are unknown. Our objective is to identify neonatal, sociodemographic, and geographic characteristics that predict re-hospitalization in Canadian extremely preterm neonates. Methods This is a retrospective analysis of a prospective observational cohort study that included preterm infants born 22 to 28 weeks' gestational age from April 1, 2009 to September 30, 2011 and seen at 18 to 24 months corrected gestational age in a Canadian Neonatal Follow-Up Network clinic. Characteristics of infants re-hospitalized versus not re-hospitalized are compared. The potential neonatal, sociodemographic, and geographic factors with significant association in the univariate analysis are included in a multivariate model. Results From a total of 2,275 preterm infants born at 22 to 28 weeks gestation included, 838 (36.8%) were re-hospitalized at least once. There were significant disparities between Canadian provincial regions, ranging from 25.9% to 49.4%. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, factors associated with an increased risk for re-hospitalization were region of residence, male sex, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, prolonged neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, ethnicity, Indigenous ethnicity, and sibling(s) in the home. Conclusion Various neonatal, sociodemographic, and geographic factors predict re-hospitalization of extremely preterm infants born in Canada. The risk factors of re-hospitalization provide insights to help health care leaders explore potential preventative approaches to improve child health and reduce health care system costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Given the current opioid crisis, caregivers have mounting fears regarding the use of opioid medication in their children. We aimed to determine caregivers' a) willingness to accept, b) reasons for refusing, and c) past experiences with opioids. Methods A novel electronic survey of caregivers of children aged 4 to 16 years who had an acute musculoskeletal injury and presented to two Canadian paediatric emergency departments (ED) (March to November 2017). Primary outcome was caregiver willingness to accept opioids for moderate pain for their children. Results Five hundred and seventeen caregivers participated; mean age was 40.9 (SD 7.1) years with 70.0% (362/517) mothers. Children included 62.2% (321/516) males with a mean age of 10.0 (SD 3.6) years. 49.6% of caregivers (254/512) reported willingness to accept opioids for ongoing moderate pain in the ED, while 37.1% (190/512) were 'unsure'; 33.2% (170/512) of caregivers would accept opioids for at-home use, but 45.5% (233/512) were 'unsure'. Caregivers' primary concerns were side effects, overdose, addiction, and masking of diagnosis. Caregiver fear of addiction (odds ratio [OR] 1.12, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01 to 1.25) and side effects (OR 1.25, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.42) affected willingness to accept opioids in the emergency department ; fears of addiction (OR 1.19, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.32), and overdose (OR 1.15, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.27) affected willingness to accept opioids for at-home use. Conclusions Only half of the caregivers would accept opioids for moderate pain, despite ongoing pain following nonopioid analgesics. Caregivers' fears of addiction, side effects, overdose, and masking diagnosis may have influenced their responses. These findings are a first step in understanding caregiver analgesic decision making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transitional neonatal hypoglycemia is common in at-risk well newborns, requires immediate attention, interferes with breastfeeding, and frequently results in separation of mothers from their babies. Breastfeeding shortly after birth and screening at-risk newborns at 2 hours of age is standard practice in Canada. In the Sugar Babies Trial, a custom-made 40% glucose-gel massaged to the buccal mucosa in at-risk infants decreased intravenous glucose treatment, but not neonatal intensive care unit admission. It increased the rate of full breastfeeding after discharge but experts suggest that additional evidence is needed. Further, commercially available neonatal glucose-gels do not exist, so practitioners around the world have started using diabetes-care products, which do not meet standards for use in newborns. Here, we provide a condensed summary of the topic and of management alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Children with adrenal suppression (AS), a potential side effect of glucocorticoids (GCs) may be asymptomatic, present with nonspecific signs and symptoms or with adrenal crisis. Asymptomatic AS (AAS) can only be diagnosed through screening. Identifying and treating asymptomatic patients before symptoms develop may reduce morbidity. Screening guidelines for AS are lacking. Consequently, screening practices are highly variable. Objective To assess (1) the screening practices for and recognition of paediatric AAS among clinicians in Canada and (2) the educational impact of a 2-year surveillance program of symptomatic AS cases. Methods Before and after a 2-year Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP) study of symptomatic AS, participants were surveyed through the CPSP. The prestudy survey was sent to 2,548 participants in March 2010 and the poststudy survey was sent to 2,465 participants in April 2013. Results Response rates were 32% for the prestudy survey and 21% for the poststudy survey. Between the pre- and poststudy surveys, the percentage of physicians who reported routinely screening patients on GCs for AS increased from 10% to 21% and the percentage who reported having a screening policy in their office/centre increased from 6% to 11%. There was no significant change in the percentage of physicians who had diagnosed a child/youth with AAS in the preceding year. Conclusion Frequency of screening for AAS increased following the 2-year study but remains low. Development of a clinical practice guideline should increase both awareness of asymptomatic AS among Canadian paediatricians and the identification of AAS, before symptoms develop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented global crisis, affecting millions globally and in Canada. While efforts to limit the spread of the infection and 'flatten the curve' may buffer children and youth from acute illness, these public health measures may worsen existing inequities for those living on the margins of society. In this commentary, we highlight current and potential long-term impacts of COVID-19 on children and youth centring on the UN Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), with special attention to the accumulated toxic stress for those in difficult social circumstances. By taking responsive action, providers can promote optimal child and youth health and well-being, now and in the future, through adopting social history screening, flexible care models, a child/youth-centred approach to "essential" services, and continual advocacy for the rights of children and youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Electronic cigarettes and fluid (e-cigarettes, e-fluid) are hazardous materials that when inhaled or ingested may pose significant health risks to children and adolescents. The objective of this work was to explore the spectrum of injury related to e-cigarette exposure among Canadian children and adolescents. Methods A one-time survey was sent to all paediatricians in Canada. Information was collected on children and adolescents who presented with e-cigarette exposure (inhalation and ingestion cases) in the previous 12 months. Questions included the number of injuries and symptoms, in addition to age, sex, treatment setting, intentional e-cigarette use, and how the products were accessed. Results A total of 520 surveys were completed and returned, identifying 35 cases. Symptoms related to inhalation were present in 30 cases and in 5 ingestion cases (5 unintentional, 0 intentional). For inhalation cases, most were male, ages 15 to 19 years, who sought treatment for nausea/vomiting, cough, throat irritation, or acute nicotine toxicity in an outpatient clinic/office. Most inhalation cases reported e-cigarette use 2 to 3 days/week, and e-cigarettes purchases from a mall kiosk/store. For ingestion cases, most were male, ages 1 to 4 years presenting to an emergency department with nausea/vomiting, cough, or respiratory irritation. Younger cases accessed e-fluid at home, older cases purchased in a mall kiosk/store. E-fluid flavours reported consumed were fruit, candy, and tobacco. Conclusions E-cigarettes, recently introduced into the North American market are hazardous to children and adolescents. Given the low response rate to the survey, further investigation into the true burden of injury, as well as the risks that e-cigarettes pose, together with ways to reduce exposure, is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Previous research has suggested that hand dryers may operate at dangerously loud levels for adults. No research has explored whether they operate at a safe level for children's hearing. Children's ears are more sensitive to damage from loud sounds than adult ears. Health Canada prohibits the sale of toys with peak loudness greater than 100 dB. This study tested installed dryers in public washrooms to see if they were safe for children's hearing. Methods Forty-four hand dryers in public washrooms were each measured for peak sound levels in a standardized fashion, including at children's ear canal heights. Each dryer was measured at 10 different combinations of heights and distances from the wall, and with and without hands in the air stream coming from the hand dryer, for a total of 20 measurements per dryer. Results Xlerator units performed the loudest, with all being louder than 100 dBA at all measurements whenever hands were in the airstream. Several Dyson Airblade models were also very loud, including the single loudest measurement of 121 dBA. While some other units operated at low sound levels, many units were louder at children's ear heights than at adult ear heights. Discussion Many dryers operated much louder than their manufacturers claimed, usually greater than 100 dBA (the maximum allowable noise level for products/toys meant for children). Conclusion This study suggests that many hand dryers operate at levels far louder than their manufacturers claim and at levels that are clearly dangerous to children's hearing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An average of 37 children die of hyperthermia inside parked vehicles annually in the USA. The majority of cases are due to a caregiver forgetting them (~55%), while ~13% are due to intentionally leaving children unattended and ~28% occur when children climb into unlocked vehicles. The cause of four per cent is unknown. There are no published data on incidence in Canada. Through information provided from provincial and territorial coroner's offices, Canadian government agencies and media reports, six cases of vehicular hyperthermia deaths were confirmed since 2013. Three were attributed to children left unintentionally in vehicles; one occurred after a child climbed into an unlocked vehicle and two cases are undetermined. Attention or memory lapses are hypothesized to occur due to distraction, stress, fatigue, or routine changes. Educating caregivers about the dangers of leaving children in vehicles and providing preventative strategies through anticipatory guidance may reduce these tragedies (see graphic abstract). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child sexual abuse is an important and not uncommon problem. Children who have been sexually abused may present to a physician's office, urgent care centre, or emergency department for medical evaluation. A medical evaluation can provide reassurance to both child and caregiver, identify care needs, and offer an accurate interpretation of findings to the justice and child welfare systems involved. Given the potential medico-legal implications of these assessments, the performance of a comprehensive evaluation requires both current knowledge and clinical proficiency. This position statement presents an evidence-based, trauma-informed approach to the medical evaluation of prepubertal children with suspected or confirmed sexual abuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary sodium is required in very small amounts to support circulating blood volume and blood pressure (BP). Available nutritional surveillance data suggest that most Canadian children consume sodium in excess of their dietary requirements. Approximately 80% of the sodium Canadians consume comes from processed and packaged foods. High sodium intakes in children may be an indicator of poor diet quality. Results from systematic reviews and meta-analyses have demonstrated that decreasing dietary sodium in children leads to small but clinically insignificant decreases in BP. However, population-level strategies to reduce sodium consumption, such as food product reformulation, modifying food procurement processes, and federal healthy eating policies, are important public health initiatives that can produce meaningful reductions in sodium consumption and help to prevent chronic disease in adulthood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The validated Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Network (PECARN) rule helps determine the relevance of a head computerized tomography (CT) for children with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). We sought to estimate the potential overuse of head CT within two Canadian emergency departments (EDs). Methods We conducted a retrospective chart review of children seen in 2016 in a paediatric Level I (site 1) and a general Level II (site 2) trauma centre. We reviewed charts to determine the appropriateness of head CT use according to the PECARN rule in a random subset of children presenting with head trauma. Simple descriptive statistics were applied. Results One thousand five hundred and forty-six eligible patients younger than 17 years consulted during the study period. Of the 203 randomly selected cases per setting, 16 (7.9%) and 24 (12%), respectively from sites 1 and 2 had a head CT performed. Based on the PECARN rule, we estimated the overuse for the younger group (<2 years) to be below 3% for both hospitals without significant difference between them. For the older group (≥2 years), the overuse rate was higher at site 2 (9.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.8 to 17% versus 1.2%, 95% CI: 0.2 to 6.5%, P=0.03). Conclusion Both EDs demonstrated overuse rates below 10% although it was higher for the older group at site 2. Such low rates can potentially be explained by the university affiliation of both hospitals and by two Canadian organizations working to raise awareness among physicians about the overuse of diagnostic tools and dangers inherent to radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder with no cure with onset typically during adolescence. Caring for an adolescent with a lifelong medical condition can negatively impact family structure, cohesion, relationships, and overall functioning. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate family functioning in a cohort of adolescents with narcolepsy using the PedsQL Family Impact Module. The secondary objective was to compare family functioning in adolescents with narcolepsy to adolescents with chronic pain based on published data. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of adolescents (aged 10 to 18 years) with narcolepsy. The narcolepsy group was recruited from The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, Canada. Family functioning was assessed by the PedsQL family impact module total scores, which was completed by the patient's caregiver. The PedsQL family impact module yields a total scale which encompasses parent health-related quality of life, daily activities, family relationships, communication, and worry subscales. Lower scores suggest poorer family functioning. Secondary data analyses were used to compare participants' family functioning to a cohort of adolescents with chronic pain. Results Thirty adolescents with narcolepsy participated (mean age=13.8 ± 2.2 years, 76.7% male). Family functioning was impaired in this cohort of adolescents with narcolepsy and similar to adolescents with chronic pain (64.0 ± 19.8 versus 64.7 ± 19.5; P=0.849). Conclusion Family functioning is impaired in adolescents with narcolepsy. Clinical teams should assess family functioning at routine clinic visits by asking about concerns and challenges related to caring for an adolescent with narcolepsy and providing resources and support as needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Most military families experience mandatory relocation, or posting, several times during the military career. For Canadian military families who must access provincial or territorial health care systems, maintaining reasonable continuity of care is a persistent issue. Such challenges may be amplified when a child in a military family has special needs within the health and educational systems. Objective The purpose of this qualitative study was to gain a better understanding of Canadian Armed Forces families' experiences in navigating health care systems on behalf of a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the context of mandatory relocation. Methods Parents of children with ASD, where at least one parent serves in the Canadian Armed Forces and had faced military-related relocation, were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed thematically. Results Twelve participants represented 12 families and 15 children with ASD. Participants discussed two primary themes. (1) High mobility inherent in the military lifestyle can create disruptions and discontinuities to service, including delays in diagnosis or intervention, losses and gains in available services determined by the direction of posting, and the need to start health care access processes over again when relocating. (2) Navigating health systems for children with ASD creates personal stress and frustration related to relocating, and has career implications for both parents. Conclusions Military-related relocation can create significant disruption in access to health and educational services for Canadian military families who have a child with ASD, and take a personal toll on these families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on role of the measles vaccine for travelling infants 6 to 11 months of age in the era of global outbreaks of disease. Topics include the measles is a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral illness acquired through a respiratory route that is characterized by cough, coryza, conjunctivitis, and a maculopapular rash, and the complications of infection include pneumonia, acute encephalitis, late-onset subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, and even death.

Background: Clinical experience suggests that childhood nephrotic syndrome is frequently diagnosed incorrectly, leading to delays in providing effective treatment. We hypothesized that the health care setting is an important determinant of diagnostic success, with implications for the patient and family health care experience. Our objectives were: (1) to characterize the relationship between diagnostic success and health care setting for the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome, (2) to determine types and frequencies of incorrect diagnoses, and (3) to understand the burden placed on patients and families as a result of incorrect and incomplete diagnoses. Methods: A survey was conducted by phone or in-person with legal guardians of children 1 to 18 years diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome within 24 months before the study. The survey elicited information on type of health care setting utilized (e.g., family practice, emergency room) and on diagnoses and treatments. Results: Seventy-four patients with varying ethnicities and socioeconomic profiles (37 male, 37 female, median age 4.8 years, range: 1.2 to 14.8) were included from four Canadian paediatric nephrology centres. Proportions of diagnostic success were high in emergency and paediatric care settings (66% and 64% correct, respectively), but low in primary care settings (17% family practice and 17% walk-in clinic, respectively). Diagnostic delays ranged from 0 to 428 days (median 9.5, interquartile range [IQR] = 20.5). “Allergies” was the most common incorrect diagnosis (47%). Parents and legal guardians reported missed work (55%) and added expenses (50%) prior to obtaining a correct diagnosis. Conclusions: Childhood nephrotic syndrome is often incorrectly diagnosed, especially in primary care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives With no nationally-endorsed guidelines and the emergence of newer diagnostic tools, there exists significant variation in the management of febrile infants <90 days. We sought to evaluate the prevalence and content of clinical decision tools (CDTs) for the emergency department (ED) and inpatient management of febrile young infants across Canada. Methods We undertook a cross-sectional analysis of febrile young infant CDTs from ED and inpatient units at all 16 Canadian tertiary paediatric hospitals. Additional data were collected using an electronic survey of ED and inpatient representatives, characterizing their clinical settings and diagnostic test availability. Content of all existent CDTs was independently reviewed using list items determined a priori. The primary outcome was the proportion of EDs and inpatient units with CDTs. Results Information regarding CDTs was gathered from all 16 EDs and 16 inpatient units. CDTs were infrequently available (9/32, 28%), and were more common in the ED than inpatient setting (8/16 versus 1/16, P=0.02). Review of existing CDTs revealed inter-centre differences for inclusion ages, treatment regimens, lumbar puncture recommendations, diagnostic testing and normal laboratory values. Despite availability reported at nearly all centres, C-reactive protein and respiratory virus testing were recommended in 3/9 and 5/9 CDTs, respectively. Procalcitonin testing was available at only 2/16 (13%) centres, and not incorporated into any CDTs. Conclusions CDTs for the management of febrile young infants are infrequently available among Canadian tertiary paediatric centres, and rarely incorporate newer diagnostic tests. Heterogeneity among existent CDTs highlights the need for evidence-based unified ED and inpatient national guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many children and their families do not benefit from multidisciplinary clinical care (MCC) for paediatric weight management because they do not enrol in (initiate) treatment. The purpose of this report was to highlight practical recommendations to enhance the enrolment of Canadian children in MCC, which were drawn from multisite Canadian studies (quantitative and qualitative) that we completed recently. Recommendations to stakeholders, including primary care providers, MCC providers and decisions makers, were organized according to opportunities, motivation and barriers to enrol. Findings from our research suggested that enrolment in MCC can be improved by increasing opportunities and motivation to enrol as well as reducing the impact of enrolment barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives Hypoglycemia monitoring is not recommended for most full-term newborns. We wished to determine the incidence, presentation and case characteristics of hypoglycemia in low-risk newborns. Methods With the assistance of the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program, we conducted a national study of severe hypoglycemia in apparently low-risk full-term newborns. Paediatricians who reported a case were sent a detailed questionnaire and the data were analyzed. Results: All 93 confirmed cases were singletons, 56% were first-borns and 65% were male. An 8% rate of First Nations cases was twofold the population rate. Maternal hypertension rate was 23%, fourfold the general pregnancy rate. Maternal obesity was double the general pregnancy rate at 23%. Concerning signs or feeding issues were noted in 98% at the time of diagnosis. Median time to diagnosis was 4.1 hours. Mean blood glucose at intravenous (IV) start was 1.4 ± 0.5 hours (SD). Seventy-eight per cent had at least one of four potential stress indicators and were more likely to have early diagnosis (P=0.03). Major signs were present in 20%. Those cases presented later and had lower glucose levels (median=0.8 mmol/L versus 1.6 mmol/L, [P<0.001). Twenty-five per cent of cases had birth weight less than the 10th centile. Neurodevelopmental concern was reported in 20%. Of the 13 cases which had brain magnetic resonance imaging, 11 were abnormal. Conclusion Hypoglycemia in unmonitored newborns is uncommon but is associated with significant morbidity. We provide a range of clues to help identify these newborns soon after birth. Widespread adoption of norm-based standards to identify small-for-gestational age infants is supported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]