1 Introduction and Objectives

Goal:

The Pediatric Critical Care Medicine Elective is designed to develop the student’s knowledge and clinical skills in the recognition of critical illness in children, the initiation of initial resuscitation, as well as the basic strategies in the management of critical illness in children.

Objectives:

1. To be able to recognize critical illness (Shock, Respiratory failure) in need of immediate resuscitation.
2. To be able to initiate basic resuscitative measures (fluid bolus, supplemental oxygen or bag-valve mask ventilation).
3. To be able to obtain a complete history and physical exam and to present this to the attending in an organized and succinct fashion.
4. To learn how to choose and utilize various forms of non-invasive and invasive monitoring.
5. To understand and appropriately utilize common diagnostic tools and labs (Echo, ECG, EEG, etc…).
6. To learn how to approach common critical care problems such as shock, respiratory distress/failure, seizures, DKA, traumatic injuries (especially head trauma), etc. This includes advancing the student’s knowledge of common interventions such as inotropes/vasopressors, invasive and non-invasive ventilatory support, and management of fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base disturbances.
7. To observe common procedures such as intubations and central line insertions.
8. To appropriately utilize resources such as sub-specialty consultation and to observe a multidisciplinary approach to complex patient problems.
9. To gain exposure to the various ethical considerations, including end-of-life care, common to the practice of critical care medicine.

Expectations:

1. The student is expected to be present in the PICU during normal daytime working hours, or for the entirety of their night shifts, depending on their current assignment.
2. The student is expected to gather data for 1-2 patients per day and to present the data on rounds in an organized, systems-based fashion.
3. The student is expected to demonstrate critical thinking about the patient’s illness by utilizing the objective data and physical exam to formulate a plan of care.
4. The student is expected to follow up on any interventions as well as lab, radiology, or pathology results to ensure that the patient’s plan of care is being executed appropriately and having the desired effect.
5. The student is expected to recognize the value and expertise that various healthcare professionals (Nursing, NP, respiratory therapy, etc.) add to the care of the patient, and to behave professionally at all times.