Using fast MRI to assess brain injuries
September 25th 2019Computed tomography scans are often used when treating children for traumatic brain injury, but the exposure to ionizing radiation may give a clinician pause in cases that are extremely subtle. A new study published in Pediatrics looked at whether fast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, meaning motion-tolerant MRI sequences done without sedation) was accurate and feasible in young children.
Cannabidiol use: We do not know the potential to harm
September 24th 2019I totally agree with Dr. Schuman’s perspective in his article that “it is inappropriate and irresponsible for pediatricians [and I include, PNPs] to encourage the use of cannabidiol (CBD) until more studies are available” to assure the safety and efficacy of CBD are clearly established in rigorous randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs).
First-ever healthy beverage consensus recommendations released
September 18th 2019Healthy Eating Research has issued a consensus recommendation for healthy beverages for children aged young than 5 years. The statement was created via a collaboration between American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Academy of Pediatrics, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and American Heart Association.
How Oregon laws tackle teen mental health and suicide risk
September 11th 2019Oregon has passed several new laws aimed at suicide prevention, with 2 of those specifically targeting students by offering excused mental health days and requiring school districts to develop comprehensive suicide prevention plans for at-risk students.
Does fast food increase risk of depression in teens?
August 30th 2019Fast food is a common element of many teenagers’ diets. This ubiquitous nature has frustrated pediatric providers fighting the tide of pediatric obesity, but a new small study from University of Alabama at Birmingham researchers indicates that another negative consequence could be an increased risk of depression.
Opioids unnecessary for tonsillectomy pain relief
August 30th 2019With a full-blown opioid epidemic making headlines, the push to use nonopioid medications to treat pain has been pervasive. However, a recent study indicates that children undergoing a tonsillectomy may be given opioid pain relief, going against current practice guidelines that recommend nonopioid relief.