Pediatric Disorders and Management

These flashcards cover key concepts related to pediatric disorders, their clinical features, management guidelines, and important red flags in development and growth.

What are the key red flags for abnormal motor development in children?

Red flags include not sitting by 8 months, not walking by 18 months, or having early hand preference (<1 year).

What are common causes of abnormal motor development?

Common causes include cerebral palsy (UMN), spinal muscular atrophy (LMN), and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (myopathy).

What is cerebral palsy?

A chronic disorder of movement and/or posture that is typically diagnosed before 2 years of age.

What are the clinical features of cerebral palsy?

Features may include abnormal limb/trunk posture, abnormal gait, inability to sit unsupported by 8 months, asymmetric hand function before 12 months, and feeding difficulties.

What are the subtypes of cerebral palsy?

The subtypes include Spastic (increased tone, brisk reflexes), Dyskinetic (dystonia, choreoathetosis), and Ataxic (cerebellar features).

What is spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)?

A genetic disorder characterized by anterior horn cell degeneration leading to lower motor neuron syndrome.

What is a key feature of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)?

DMD commonly presents with a waddling gait and calf pseudohypertrophy by ages 4-5.

What are the investigations for Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

Investigations may include raised CK levels and genetic analysis.

What is autism and when does it typically present?

Autism often presents between the ages of 2–4 with delayed speech, poor social interaction, and repetitive behaviors.

What is the first-line pharmacological treatment for ADHD in school-age children?

Methylphenidate is the first-line pharmacological therapy for ADHD.

What are common clinical features of ADHD?

Symptoms include persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity across multiple settings.

What is the management for children diagnosed with ADHD who have insomnia?

Melatonin may be used in children with ADHD and insomnia.

What are the typical clinical features of neonatal jaundice?

Clinical features include yellowing of the skin and eyes, and jaundice occurring in more than 50% of babies.

What is the most common cause of urinary tract infections in children?

The most common cause is E. coli, responsible for 90% of cases.

What defines Idiopathic Constipation in children?

Defined by less than three stools per week, often accompanied by abdominal pain or overflow soiling.

What are some common causes of short stature in children?

Common causes include constitutional delay and growth hormone deficiencies.

What are the red flags for faltering growth in infants?

Red flags include weight loss greater than 10% of birth weight, not regaining birth weight by 3 weeks, or current weight below the 2nd centile.

What are the primary nursing interventions for dehydration in children?

Rehydration should be initiated with ORS for mild to moderate dehydration and IV fluids for severe cases.

What defines failure to thrive in children?

Faltering growth defined by a slower than expected rate of weight gain or a drop across centiles.

What is the clinical presentation of a child with retinoblastoma?

Clinical features include leukocoria (white pupillary reflex) and strabismus (squint).