PECARN Spotlight: Tools Validated

In this episode, we delve into a pivotal multi-center study validating the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) prediction rules for using CT imaging in children with blunt abdominal and minor head trauma. We discuss with the authors the study’s impact, how these validated rules can optimize pediatric trauma care, minimize radiation risks, and what this means for emergency practices worldwide. This conversation not only sheds light on the study’s intricate processes and outcomes, but also emphasizes the vital role of evidence-based guidelines in enhancing patient safety and care quality. Host: Dr. Julia Magaña, Associate Professor of Pediatric Emergency Medicine at UC Davis Guests: Dr. Nate Kuppermann, Pediatric Emergency Physician, Professor and Chair of the UC Davis Department of Emergency Medicine, Founding Chair of the PECARN Steering Committee Dr. James Holmes, Professor of Emergency Medicine at UC Davis Resources: Holmes JF, Yen K, Ugalde IT, Ishimine P, Chaudhari PP, Atigapramoj N, Badawy M, McCarten-Gibbs KA, Nielsen D, Sage AC, Tatro G, Upperman JS, Adelson PD, Tancredi DJ, Kuppermann N. PECARN prediction rules for CT imaging of children presenting to the emergency department with blunt abdominal or minor head trauma: a multicentre prospective validation study. Lancet Child Adolesc Health. 2024 May;8(5):339-347. doi: 10.1016/S2352-4642(24)00029-4. PMID: 38609287. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanchi/article/PIIS2352-4642(24)00029-4/abstract ***** Thank you to the UC Davis Department of Emergency Medicine for supporting this podcast and to Orlando Magaña at OM Productions for audio production services.