[Out-of-hospital care setting in a Febrile Emergency Unit of suspected Covid 19 patients]. / Atención extrahospitalaria en una Unidad Febril de Urgencia de pacientes sospechosos de Covid 19.

INTRODUCTION: In 2019, a new infection was reported in China. This coronavirus was named SARS-COV-2, causative of the 21st-century pandemic, COVID-19. Health systems adopted different strategies to cope with it. OBJECTIVE: to describe the clinical-epidemiological characteristics of COVID-19 in children seen at an Emergency Febril Unit (UFU). PATIENTS AND METHOD: Cross-sectional study in patients under 18 years of age tested for SARS-COV-2 between April 1 and June 30, 2020. All epidemiological re cords made at the time of consultation and the result of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test of these patients, either by suspicion of COVID-19 or epidemiological isolation criteria, were inclu ded. Patients whose samples had been taken for SARS-COV-2 determination outside the initial time of consultation or whose epidemiological records were incomplete or did not meet the established inclusion criteria were excluded. The diagnosis of COVID-19 was made using the PCR technique for SARS-COV-2 in nasopharyngeal secretions obtained by nasopharyngeal swab or aspirate. The following variables were recorded: age, gender, place of residence, history of close contact, history of history of close contacts, travel history and comorbidities, history of institutionalization and PCR result. RESULTS: 1,104 patients were admitted to the UFU and tested due to suspected COVID-19. 152 patients had to be excluded due to insufficient data. Of the 952 patients tested, 22.6% had a detec table result, and 71.2% of them reported close contact with confirmed cases. The mean age was 5.9 years. The 55.4% were male and 99.3% lived in the Metropolitan Area of Buenos Aires. 72.8% of the patients tested had symptoms. The time of delay in consultation was 2.17 days. 25% of the children had comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS: The availability of the UFU facilitated access and optimized the care circuit in response to demand. Children with a history of close contact and those symptomatic showed more frequently a detectable result for SARS-COV-2.

Muerte encefálica y donación de órganos en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos de Argentina: Estudio multicéntrico / Brain death and organ donation in Argentine pediatric intensive care units: A multicenter study

La muerte encefálica (ME) es una condición determinada por el cese completo e irreversible de las funciones cerebrales. El mantenimiento de estas funciones vitales crea una oportunidad para la donación de órganos. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo en 7 unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica de Argentina (01/01/2013 al 30/09/2016), para determinar la incidencia de ME clínicas y certificadas, y la proporción de trasplantes efectivos. El 19,14% de los pacientes fallecidos (147/768) cumplían con los requisitos clínicos de ME, siendo su principal causa el politraumatismo. En el 13,4% de los óbitos la ME fue certificada (103), el electroencefalograma y test de apnea fueron los métodos auxiliares más utilizados. El tiempo de sostén de órganos fue de 24 h. Se abordaron 87 familias para el proceso de donación; se rechazaron 59 (no aptos o negativa familiar). Los donantes efectivos representaron el 25% (26/103) de los pacientes con ME certificada y 72 pacientes recibieron órganos sólidos.

Brain death (BD) is a condition determined by the complete and irreversible absence of brain functions. Maintenance of vital functions creates an opportunity for organ donation. A retrospective study was carried out in 7 pediatric intensive care units of Argentina (from 1/1/2013 to 9/30/2016) to determine the incidence of clinical and certified BD, and the proportion of effective transplantations. Among deceased patients, 19.14% (147/768) met the clinical requirements for BD, and the main cause of BD was multiple trauma. BD was certified in 13.4% of deceased patients (103); an electroencephalogram and an apnea test were the most commonly used ancillary methods. Organ maintenance time was 24 hours. A total of 87 families were approached for donation; 59 were rejected (they were not suitable or refused). Effective donors accounted for 25% (26/103) of patients with certified BD and 72 patients received solid organs.

Brain death and organ donation in Argentine pediatric intensive care units. A multicenter study. / Muerte encefálica y donación de órganos en unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos de Argentina. Estudio multicéntrico.

Brain death (BD) is a condition determined by the complete and irreversible absence of brain functions. Maintenance of vital functions creates an opportunity for organ donation. A retrospective study was carried out in 7 pediatric intensive care units of Argentina (from 1/1/2013 to 9/30/2016) to determine the incidence of clinical and certified BD, and the proportion of effective transplantations. Among deceased patients, 19.14% (147/768) met the clinical requirements for BD, and the main cause of BD was multiple trauma. BD was certified in 13.4% of deceased patients (103); an electroencephalogram and an apnea test were the most commonly used ancillary methods. Organ maintenance time was 24 hours. A total of 87 families were approached for donation; 59 were rejected (they were not suitable or refused). Effective donors accounted for 25% (26/103) of patients with certified BD and 72 patients received solid organs.

La muerte encefálica (ME) es una condición determinada por el cese completo e irreversible de las funciones cerebrales. El mantenimiento de estas funciones vitales crea una oportunidad para la donación de órganos. Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo en 7 unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica de Argentina (01/01/2013 al 30/09/2016), para determinar la incidencia de ME clínicas y certificadas, y la proporción de trasplantes efectivos. El 19,14% de los pacientes fallecidos (147/768) cumplían con los requisitos clínicos de ME, siendo su principal causa el politraumatismo. En el 13,4% de los óbitos la ME fue certificada (103), el electroencefalograma y test de apnea fueron los métodos auxiliares más utilizados. El tiempo de sostén de órganos fue de 24 h. Se abordaron 87 familias para el proceso de donación; se rechazaron 59 (no aptos o negativa familiar). Los donantes efectivos representaron el 25% (26/103) de los pacientes con ME certificada y 72 pacientes recibieron órganos sólidos.

Invaginación intestinal en un lactante con diagnóstico de botulismo: Reporte de un caso / Intussusception in infant with diagnostic botulism: A case report

El botulismo es un importante problema de salud pública en Argentina. Es una enfermedad potencialmente letal y de difícil diagnóstico. Existen casos de presentación infrecuente de dicha enfermedad, como el abdomen agudo. Exponemos el caso de un niño de 4 meses, que consultó por constipación de 3 días de evolución, asociada a decaimiento y regular actitud alimentaria de 12 horas de evolución. Presentaba tono muscular conservado, sin alteraciones en la succión ni deglución, según la referencia materna. Se constató sensorio alternante y abdomen agudo, por lo que ingresó a quirófano con sospecha de invaginación intestinal, la cual fue confirmada mediante desinvaginación neumática. Durante la internación, el paciente evolucionó desfavorablemente y presentó llanto débil, hipotonía progresiva e insuficiencia respiratoria, por lo que requirió cuidados intensivos. Se aisló Clostridium botulinum en la muestra de materia fecal y toxina botulínica tipo A en el suero. Recibió toxina antibotulínica equina como tratamiento, con recuperación total a los 25 días de haber ingresado.

Botulism is an important public health problem in Argentina. It is a potentially fatal disease, and its diagnosis may be difficult. There are rare presentation forms of the disease, such as acute abdomen. We present a 4-monthbaby with a 3-day constipation condition, associated with weakness and abnormal eating attitude in the last 12 hours. The baby presented preserved muscle tone, with no changes in sucking or deglutition according to the mother's observations. Altered sensorium and acute abdomen were found; the patient was entered into the operating room with presumptive diagnosis ofintussusception, which was confirmed by pneumatic desinvagination. During hospitalization, the patient did not make good progress and presented weak cry, progressive hypotonia and respiratory failure requiring intensive care. Clostridium botulinum was isolated from the stool sample and botulinum toxin type A was isolated from serum. The patient was treated with equine botulinum toxin. Twenty five days after admission, he was totally recovered.

Características de las residencias de terapia intensiva pediátrica de la República Argentina: Encuesta nacional / Characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs in Argentina: A national survey

Introducción. La residencia de terapia intensiva pediátrica (TIP) tiene pocos años de desarrollo en nuestro país. Conocer su situación brinda la posibilidad de establecer estrategias para contribuir al desarrollo y capacitación de profesionales. Objetivos. 1) Describir las características de las residencias de TIP del país. 2) Evaluar si existen características que se relacionen con una mayor ocupación de las vacantes. 3) Explorar la inserción laboral en el hospital formador de los residentes. Diseño. Descriptivo, observacional. Encuesta nacional. Criterios de inclusión. Residencias de TIP funcionales entre el 1/4/2014 y el 31/5/2014. Resultados. Se analizaron 31 residencias. Solo 11/31 tenían volumen de internación anual >400 pacientes. No había normas y/o criterios de atención en 9/31. En 17/31, el programa estuvo adecuado al marco de referencia nacional. Hubo 13/31 que no contaban con jefe ni instructor de residentes. Fueron acreditadas por el Ministerio de Salud 5/31. Hubo 65 vacantes; el número aumentó en los últimos 4 años; la ocupación disminuyó de 59% en 2009 a 30% en 2013. El 60% de los residentes tuvo inserción laboral en la TIP formadora. El análisis de regresión logística multivariado identificó la variable ingresos anuales > 400 pacientes como predictora independiente de ocupación de vacantes > 60%. Conclusiones. 1) Hay un déficit en la ocupación de cargos. 2) El número de residencias acreditadas es escaso. 3) Las unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos con mayor número de ingresos se asociaron a una mayor cobertura de vacantes. 4) Más de la mitad de los residentes se insertaron laboralmente en la TIP formadora.

Introduction. Pediatric intensive care residency programs have been in place in Argentina for just a few years. Knowing their status offers the possibility to establish strategies to help with professional development and training. Objectives. 1) To describe the characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs across Argentina. 2) To assess whether certain characteristics are related to a higher vacancy filling rate. 3) To assess job placement in the hospital where residents are trained. Design. Descriptive, observational study. National survey. Inclusion criteria. Pediatric intensive care residency programs in place between April 1st, 2014 and May 31st, 2014. Results. Thirty-one residency programs were analyzed. Only 11/31 had an annual hospitalization volume >400patients. There were no guidelines and/or criteria for care in 9/31. The program suited the national reference frameworkin17/31. There was no head ofresidents or resident trainer in 13/31. Only 5/31 had been certified by the Ministry of Health. There were 65 vacancies; this number increased in the past four years; vacancy filling rate decreased from 59% in 2009 to 30% in 2013. Sixty percent of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the outcome measure annual hospitalization volume >400 patients as an independent predictor of vacancy filling rate >60%. Conclusions. 1) Vacancy filling is deficient. 2) The number of certified residency programs is scarce. 3) Pediatric intensive care units with a higher number of hospitalizations were associated with a higher vacancy filling rate. 4) More than half of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained.

Características de las residencias de terapia intensiva pediátrica de la República Argentina: Encuesta nacional / Characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs in Argentina: A national survey

Introducción. La residencia de terapia intensiva pediátrica (TIP) tiene pocos años de desarrollo en nuestro país. Conocer su situación brinda la posibilidad de establecer estrategias para contribuir al desarrollo y capacitación de profesionales. Objetivos. 1) Describir las características de las residencias de TIP del país. 2) Evaluar si existen características que se relacionen con una mayor ocupación de las vacantes. 3) Explorar la inserción laboral en el hospital formador de los residentes. Diseño. Descriptivo, observacional. Encuesta nacional. Criterios de inclusión. Residencias de TIP funcionales entre el 1/4/2014 y el 31/5/2014. Resultados. Se analizaron 31 residencias. Solo 11/31 tenían volumen de internación anual >400 pacientes. No había normas y/o criterios de atención en 9/31. En 17/31, el programa estuvo adecuado al marco de referencia nacional. Hubo 13/31 que no contaban con jefe ni instructor de residentes. Fueron acreditadas por el Ministerio de Salud 5/31. Hubo 65 vacantes; el número aumentó en los últimos 4 años; la ocupación disminuyó de 59% en 2009 a 30% en 2013. El 60% de los residentes tuvo inserción laboral en la TIP formadora. El análisis de regresión logística multivariado identificó la variable ingresos anuales > 400 pacientes como predictora independiente de ocupación de vacantes > 60%. Conclusiones. 1) Hay un déficit en la ocupación de cargos. 2) El número de residencias acreditadas es escaso. 3) Las unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos con mayor número de ingresos se asociaron a una mayor cobertura de vacantes. 4) Más de la mitad de los residentes se insertaron laboralmente en la TIP formadora.(AU)

Introduction. Pediatric intensive care residency programs have been in place in Argentina for just a few years. Knowing their status offers the possibility to establish strategies to help with professional development and training. Objectives. 1) To describe the characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs across Argentina. 2) To assess whether certain characteristics are related to a higher vacancy filling rate. 3) To assess job placement in the hospital where residents are trained. Design. Descriptive, observational study. National survey. Inclusion criteria. Pediatric intensive care residency programs in place between April 1st, 2014 and May 31st, 2014. Results. Thirty-one residency programs were analyzed. Only 11/31 had an annual hospitalization volume >400patients. There were no guidelines and/or criteria for care in 9/31. The program suited the national reference frameworkin17/31. There was no head ofresidents or resident trainer in 13/31. Only 5/31 had been certified by the Ministry of Health. There were 65 vacancies; this number increased in the past four years; vacancy filling rate decreased from 59% in 2009 to 30% in 2013. Sixty percent of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the outcome measure annual hospitalization volume >400 patients as an independent predictor of vacancy filling rate >60%. Conclusions. 1) Vacancy filling is deficient. 2) The number of certified residency programs is scarce. 3) Pediatric intensive care units with a higher number of hospitalizations were associated with a higher vacancy filling rate. 4) More than half of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained.(AU)

Invaginación intestinal en un lactante con diagnóstico de botulismo: Reporte de un caso / Intussusception in infant with diagnostic botulism: A case report

El botulismo es un importante problema de salud pública en Argentina. Es una enfermedad potencialmente letal y de difícil diagnóstico. Existen casos de presentación infrecuente de dicha enfermedad, como el abdomen agudo. Exponemos el caso de un niño de 4 meses, que consultó por constipación de 3 días de evolución, asociada a decaimiento y regular actitud alimentaria de 12 horas de evolución. Presentaba tono muscular conservado, sin alteraciones en la succión ni deglución, según la referencia materna. Se constató sensorio alternante y abdomen agudo, por lo que ingresó a quirófano con sospecha de invaginación intestinal, la cual fue confirmada mediante desinvaginación neumática. Durante la internación, el paciente evolucionó desfavorablemente y presentó llanto débil, hipotonía progresiva e insuficiencia respiratoria, por lo que requirió cuidados intensivos. Se aisló Clostridium botulinum en la muestra de materia fecal y toxina botulínica tipo A en el suero. Recibió toxina antibotulínica equina como tratamiento, con recuperación total a los 25 días de haber ingresado.(AU)

Botulism is an important public health problem in Argentina. It is a potentially fatal disease, and its diagnosis may be difficult. There are rare presentation forms of the disease, such as acute abdomen. We present a 4-monthbaby with a 3-day constipation condition, associated with weakness and abnormal eating attitude in the last 12 hours. The baby presented preserved muscle tone, with no changes in sucking or deglutition according to the mothers observations. Altered sensorium and acute abdomen were found; the patient was entered into the operating room with presumptive diagnosis ofintussusception, which was confirmed by pneumatic desinvagination. During hospitalization, the patient did not make good progress and presented weak cry, progressive hypotonia and respiratory failure requiring intensive care. Clostridium botulinum was isolated from the stool sample and botulinum toxin type A was isolated from serum. The patient was treated with equine botulinum toxin. Twenty five days after admission, he was totally recovered.(AU)

Characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs in Argentina: A national survey.

INTRODUCTION: Pediatric intensive care residency programs have been in place in Argentina for just a few years. Knowing their status offers the possibility to establish strategies to help with professional development and training. OBJECTIVES: 1) To describe the characteristics of pediatric intensive care residency programs across Argentina. 2) To assess whether certain characteristics are related to a higher vacancy filling rate. 3) To assess job placement in the hospital where residents are trained. DESIGN: Descriptive, observational study. National survey. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Pediatric intensive care residency programs in place between April 1st, 2014 and May 31st, 2014. RESULTS: Thirty-one residency programs were analyzed. Only 11/31 had an annual hospitalization volume >400 patients. There were no guidelines and/or criteria for care in 9/31. The program suited the national reference framework in 17/31. There was no head of residents or resident trainer in 13/31. Only 5/31 had been certified by the Ministry of Health. There were 65 vacancies; this number increased in the past four years; vacancy filling rate decreased from 59% in 2009 to 30% in 2013. Sixty percent of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained. A multivariate logistic regression analysis identified the outcome measure annual hospitalization volume >400 patients as an independent predictor of vacancy filling rate >60%. CONCLUSIONS: 1) Vacancy filling is deficient. 2) The number of certified residency programs is scarce. 3) Pediatric intensive care units with a higher number of hospitalizations were associated with a higher vacancy filling rate. 4) More than half of residents got a job in the pediatric intensive care unit where they were trained.

[Intussusception in infant with diagnostic botulism: A case report]. / Invaginación intestinal en un lactante con diagnóstico de botulismo: Reporte de un caso.

Botulism is an important public health problem in Argentina. It is a potentially fatal disease, and its diagnosis may be difficult. There are rare presentation forms of the disease, such as acute abdomen. We present a 4-month baby with a 3-day constipation condition, associated with weakness and abnormal eating attitude in the last 12 hours. The baby presented preserved muscle tone, with no changes in sucking or deglutition according to the mother's observations. Altered sensorium and acute abdomen were found; the patient was entered into the operating room with presumptive diagnosis of intussusception, which was confirmed by pneumatic desinvagination. During hospitalization, the patient did not make good progress and presented weak cry, progressive hypotonia and respiratory failure requiring intensive care. Clostridium botulinum was isolated from the stool sample and botulinum toxin type A was isolated from serum. The patient was treated with equine botulinum toxin. Twenty five days after admission, he was totally recovered.

Evaluación de una estrategia de mejora sobre la incidencia de errores en la prescripción de medicamentos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit

Los errores en la prescripción médica (EPM) son una de las causas más frecuentes de eventos adversos. Las unidades de cuidados intensivos constituyen un ámbito de alto riesgo para su aparición. Objetivos. Describir la incidencia y los tipos de EPM en nuestra Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Evaluar si la implementación de una estrategia de mejora sobre los EPM modifica su incidencia a inmediato y largo plazo. Población y métodos. Estudio tipo antes y después, no controlado, prospectivo. Universo y muestra. Todas las prescripciones médicas de los pacientes internados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos del Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde, en los períodos julio-diciembre de 2013 y julio-agosto de 2014. Resultados. En la etapa preintervención, la tasa de EPM fue de 13,9%; el EPM más frecuente fue la falta de hora de modificación de un determinado medicamento, seguido por la omisión de dosis o medicamento. La medicación implicada con mayor frecuencia en los EPM fue el grupo de sedoanalgesia continua. Luego de la aplicación de un programa de mejora sobre EPM, la incidencia disminuyó a 6,3 errores por 100 prescripciones. El tipo de EPM en el cual se evidenció mayor reducción fue la falta de hora de modificación. A excepción del ítem plan de hidratación parenteral y electrolitos, todos los demás grupos de drogas analizados presentaron una marcada reducción. La tasa de EPM, luego de transcurrido un año del diagnóstico de situación, fue del 5,8%; mantuvo valores similares a la etapa de posintervención inmediata. Conclusión. La gestión de un programa de mejora sobre los EPM permitió un descenso en su incidencia.

Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. Objectives. To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. Population and Methods. Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. Results. In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. Conclusion. Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.

Evaluación de una estrategia de mejora sobre la incidencia de errores en la prescripción de medicamentos en una unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos / Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit

Los errores en la prescripción médica (EPM) son una de las causas más frecuentes de eventos adversos. Las unidades de cuidados intensivos constituyen un ámbito de alto riesgo para su aparición. Objetivos. Describir la incidencia y los tipos de EPM en nuestra Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos. Evaluar si la implementación de una estrategia de mejora sobre los EPM modifica su incidencia a inmediato y largo plazo. Población y métodos. Estudio tipo antes y después, no controlado, prospectivo. Universo y muestra. Todas las prescripciones médicas de los pacientes internados en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Pediátricos del Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde, en los períodos julio-diciembre de 2013 y julio-agosto de 2014. Resultados. En la etapa preintervención, la tasa de EPM fue de 13,9%; el EPM más frecuente fue la falta de hora de modificación de un determinado medicamento, seguido por la omisión de dosis o medicamento. La medicación implicada con mayor frecuencia en los EPM fue el grupo de sedoanalgesia continua. Luego de la aplicación de un programa de mejora sobre EPM, la incidencia disminuyó a 6,3 errores por 100 prescripciones. El tipo de EPM en el cual se evidenció mayor reducción fue la falta de hora de modificación. A excepción del ítem plan de hidratación parenteral y electrolitos, todos los demás grupos de drogas analizados presentaron una marcada reducción. La tasa de EPM, luego de transcurrido un año del diagnóstico de situación, fue del 5,8%; mantuvo valores similares a la etapa de posintervención inmediata. Conclusión. La gestión de un programa de mejora sobre los EPM permitió un descenso en su incidencia.(AU)

Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. Objectives. To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. Population and Methods. Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. Results. In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. Conclusion. Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.(AU)

Evaluation of an improvement strategy on the incidence of medication prescribing errors in a pediatric intensive care unit.

UNLABELLED: Medical prescribing errors (MPEs) are one of the most common causes of adverse events. Intensive care units are a high-risk setting for their occurrence. OBJECTIVES: To describe the incidence and types of MPEs in our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. To assess whether the implementation of an improvement strategy on MPEs affects their incidence in the short- and long-term. POPULATION AND METHODS: Prospective, uncontrolled, before-after study. Universe and sample. All medical prescriptions for patients hospitalized in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital General de Niños Pedro de Elizalde from July-December, 2013 and from July-August, 2014. RESULTS: In the pre-intervention period, MPEs rate was 13.9%, the most common being the absence of the time a given medication was modified, followed by missing a dose or medication. The medication most frequently involved in MPEs was the sedation and continuous analgesia group. After the implementation of an improvement program on MPEs, the incidence decreased to 6.3 errors every 100 prescriptions. The MPE type which showed the greatest reduction was the absence of the time of modification. Except for parenteral hydration and electrolyte supplementation, the rest of the analyzed medication groups showed a marked reduction. One year after having reviewed the situation, the MPE rate was 5.8%, and values remained similar to those of the immediate postintervention period. CONCLUSION: Managing an improvement program on MPEs resulted in a decrease in its incidence.

Ensayo clínico aleatorizado sobre la administración de una solución de mantenimiento intravenosa hipotónica comparada contra una isotónica en pacientes pediátricos críticos / Hypotonic versus isotonic maintenance fluids in critically ill pediatric patients: a randomized control trial

Introducción. Las soluciones hipotónicas se han vinculado a la producción de hiponatremia iatrogénica. Objetivos. Evaluar las variaciones en el sodio sérico (NaS) tras la administración de una solución de mantenimiento intravenosa isotónica (NaCl al 0,9% en dextrosa al 5%) en comparación con una solución de mantenimiento hipotónica (NaCl al 0,45% en dextrosa al 5%). Material y métodos. Ensayo clínico aleatorizado, doble ciego y controlado. Se enrolaron pacientes pediátricos con una estadía esperada en la unidad de cuidados intensivos mayor de 24 horas, NaS normal y líquidos intravenosos > 80% de los líquidos totales de mantenimiento. La concentración sérica de Na se midió antes de colocar la solución de mantenimiento y al reducir la administración de ésta a < 80% del total del aporte. Resultados. Se incorporaron 63 pacientes, que fueron asignados en forma aleatoria a recibir una solución de mantenimiento hipotónica (n= 32) o isotónica (n= 31). Las características basales fueron similares en ambos grupos. No hubo diferencias con respecto a la cantidad de solución administrada (grupo hipotónico 865 ± 853 ml; grupo isotónico 778 ± 649 ml, p= 0,654) o el tiempo de infusión (grupo hipotónico: 24 ± 10,8 horas; grupo isotónico: 27,6 ± 12,8 horas, p= 0,231). Se encontró una diferencia en el NaS luego de la administración de las soluciones de mantenimiento (grupo hipotónico: 137,8 ± 4,3 mmol/L; grupo isotónico: 140,0 ± 4,1 mmol/L, p=0,04). Ninguna de las dos soluciones de mantenimiento aumentó el riesgo de hiponatremia (Na < 135 mmol/L) o de hipernatremia (Na > 145 mmol/L). Conclusiones. Ambas soluciones de mantenimiento, en 24 horas de infusión, no aumentaron el riesgo de producir hiponatremia iatrogénica.

Introduction: Hypotonic fluids have been associated with the development of iatrogenic hyponatremia. Objectives. To assess variations in serum sodium (sNa) following the intravenous administration of isotonic maintenance fluids (0.9% NaCl/5% dextrose) compared to hypotonic maintenance fluids (0.45% NaCl/5% dextrose). Material and Methods. Randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial. Pediatric patients with an expected length of stay in the intensive care unit of more than 24 hours were enrolled, with normal serum Na, and IV fluids >80% of total maintenance fluids. Serum Na level was measured before administering maintenance fluids and when reducing the administration to <80% of total fluids. Results. The study included 63 patients who were randomly assigned to receive hypotonic (n= 32) or isotonic (n= 31) maintenance fluids. Baseline characteristics were similar inboth groups. There were no differences in terms of volume of fluid administered (hypotonic group: 865 ± 853 mL; isotonic group: 778 ± 649 mL; p=0.654) or infusion duration (hypotonic group: 24 ± 10.8 hours; isotonic group: 27.6 ± 12.8 hours; p= 0.231). A difference was found in the serum Na following the administration of maintenance fluids (hypotonic group: 137.8 ± 4.3 mmol/L; isotonic group: 140.0 ±4.1 mmol/L, p= 0.04). None of these two maintenance fluids increased the risk of hyponatremia (Na <135 mmol/L) or hypernatremia (Na >145 mmol/L). Conclusions. Neither hypotonic nor isotonic maintenance fluids increased the risk of developing iatrogenic hyponatremia with the 24 hour infusion.

Meningitis por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente proveniente de la comunidad: a propósito de un caso / Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus community acquired meningitis: a case report

Las infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquiridas de la comunidad han aumentado su frecuencia. La mayoría se presenta como infección de piel y partes blandas. Las formas invasivas más frecuentes son las osteoarticulares y pleuropulmonares. Este germen es causa poco frecuente de meningitis. Se presenta un caso infrecuente de infección por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquirida de la comunidad. Lactante de 8 meses consulta por irritabilidad y fiebre de 4 días de evolución, con sensorio alternante y abdomen doloroso. Descartándose cuadro quirúrgico, se interna con diagnóstico de sepsis a foco enteral. Los hemocultivos y el cultivo de líquido cefalorraquídeo fueron positivos para Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente. Se adecua tratamiento antibiótico y evoluciona favorablemente. Al 7mo día de internación, presenta signos y síntomas neurológicos. En la tomografía computada de alta resolución y en la resonancia magnética, se observanimágenes compatibles con mielitis. El paciente cumple tratamiento endovenoso por 21 días con buena evolución, y se otorga el alta hospitalaria al mes de haberse iniciado el cuadro clínico.

Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus (CA-SA) infections are becoming more frequent. Most cases present an infection of skin and soft tissue, and the most invasive forms observed are osteoarticular and pleuropulmonary infections. Meningitis is a rare manifestation of Sthapylococcus aureus infections. We describe an unusual case of CA-MRSA infection. An infant of eight months presented with signs of irritability and 4 days duration fever, with alternating sensory and abdomen pain. Acute abdomen surgery was discarded and hospitalization was decided with diagnosis of sepsis due to probable enteral focus; antibiotics were indicated. Blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid culture were positive for MRSA. Sepsis with meningitis by MRSA was diagnosed. On the 7th day of hospitalization the infant presented neurological signs and symptoms. On the resolution computed tomography and the magnetic resonance, images compatible with myelitis were observed. The patient complied with the 21 day endovenous treatment, and showed positive results, being discharged from hospital a month after the appearance of the symptoms.

Meningitis por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente proveniente de la comunidad: a propósito de un caso / Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus community acquired meningitis: a case report

Las infecciones por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquiridas de la comunidad han aumentado su frecuencia. La mayoría se presenta como infección de piel y partes blandas. Las formas invasivas más frecuentes son las osteoarticulares y pleuropulmonares. Este germen es causa poco frecuente de meningitis. Se presenta un caso infrecuente de infección por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente adquirida de la comunidad. Lactante de 8 meses consulta por irritabilidad y fiebre de 4 días de evolución, con sensorio alternante y abdomen doloroso. Descartándose cuadro quirúrgico, se interna con diagnóstico de sepsis a foco enteral. Los hemocultivos y el cultivo de líquido cefalorraquídeo fueron positivos para Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente. Se adecua tratamiento antibiótico y evoluciona favorablemente. Al 7mo día de internación, presenta signos y síntomas neurológicos. En la tomografía computada de alta resolución y en la resonancia magnética, se observanimágenes compatibles con mielitis. El paciente cumple tratamiento endovenoso por 21 días con buena evolución, y se otorga el alta hospitalaria al mes de haberse iniciado el cuadro clínico.(AU)

Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus (CA-SA) infections are becoming more frequent. Most cases present an infection of skin and soft tissue, and the most invasive forms observed are osteoarticular and pleuropulmonary infections. Meningitis is a rare manifestation of Sthapylococcus aureus infections. We describe an unusual case of CA-MRSA infection. An infant of eight months presented with signs of irritability and 4 days duration fever, with alternating sensory and abdomen pain. Acute abdomen surgery was discarded and hospitalization was decided with diagnosis of sepsis due to probable enteral focus; antibiotics were indicated. Blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid culture were positive for MRSA. Sepsis with meningitis by MRSA was diagnosed. On the 7th day of hospitalization the infant presented neurological signs and symptoms. On the resolution computed tomography and the magnetic resonance, images compatible with myelitis were observed. The patient complied with the 21 day endovenous treatment, and showed positive results, being discharged from hospital a month after the appearance of the symptoms.(AU)

[Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus community acquired meningitis: a case report]. / Meningitis por Staphylococcus aureus meticilino resistente proveniente de la comunidad: a propósito de un caso.

Community-acquired Staphylococcus aureus (CA-SA) infections are becoming more frequent. Most cases present an infection of skin and soft tissue, and the most invasive forms observed are osteoarticular and pleuropulmonary infections. Meningitis is a rare manifestation of Staphylococcus aureus infections. We describe an unusual case of CA-MRSA infection. An infant of eight months presented with signs of irritability and 4 days duration fever, with alternating sensory and abdomen pain. Acute abdomen surgery was discarded and hospitalization was decided with diagnosis of sepsis due to probable enteral focus; antibiotics were indicated. Blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid culture were positive for MRSA. Sepsis with meningitis by MRSA was diagnosed. On the 7th day of hospitalization the infant presented neurological signs and symptoms. On the resolution computed tomography and the magnetic resonance, images compatible with myelitis were observed. The patient complied with the 21 day endovenous treatment, and showed positive results, being discharged from hospital a month after the appearance of the symptoms.

Infección grave por Staphylococcus aureus en tres unidades de cuidados intensivos pediátricos. Análisis de los casos de neumonía necrotizante / Severe Staphylococcus aureus infection in three pediatric intensive care units. Analysis of cases of necrotizing pneumonia

El Staphylococcus aureus afecta frecuentemente al ser humano. Dentro de las manifestaciones clínicas, la neumonía necrotizante se asocia a una alta mortalidad. Nuestro objetivo es describir la evolución de las infecciones graves por Staphylococcus aureus en tres unidades de terapia intensiva pediátricas y analizar los casos de neumonía necrotizante en el período del 01-2011 al 03-2013. Se analizaron 43 pacientes; 76,7% presentaron infección adquirida en la comunidad, y en 31 fue por Staphylococcus aureus resistente a la meticilina adquirido en la comunidad. El principal motivo de ingreso fue la claudicación respiratoria. Se documentó bacteriemia en el 55,8% de los casos. El 86% de los ingresos requirieron asistencia respiratoria mecánica y 27 pacientes desarrollaron shock séptico. La estadía en la unidad de terapia intensiva fue de 13 (5-25) días, y la mortalidad, del 14%. La neumonía necrotizante estuvo presente en el 51% de los casos. Conclusión. Se identificó una alta proporción de infección adquirida en la comunidad. La neumonía necrotizante se asociócon una peor evolución.

Staphylococcus aureus frequently affects human beings. Among clinical manifestations, necrotizing pneumonia is associated with a high mortality rate. Our objective is to describe the progress of severe Staphylococcus aureus infections in three intensive care units and analyze cases of necrotizing pneumonia in the period ranging from January 2011 to March 2013. Forty- three patients were studied, 76.7% had a community-acquired infection, and 31 had community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The main reason for admission was respiratory failure. Bacteremia was confirmed in 55.8% of cases. Mechanical ventilation was required in 86% of admitted patients, while 27 patients developed septic shock. The length of stay in the intensive care unit was 13 (5-25) days, and the mortality rate was 14%. Necrotizing pneumonia was observed in 51% of cases. Conclusion. A high rate of community-acquired infection was identified. Necrotizing pneumonia was associated with a worse clinical course.

Severe Staphylococcus aureus infection in three pediatric intensive care units: analysis of cases of necrotizing pneumonia.

Staphylococcus aureus frequently affects human beings. Among clinical manifestations, necrotizing pneumonia is associated with a high mortality rate. Our objective is to describe the progress of severe Staphylococcus aureus infections in three intensive care units and analyze cases ofnecrotizing pneumonia in the period ranging from January 2011 to March 2013. Forty-three patients were studied, 76.7% had a community-acquired infection, and 31 had community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The main reason for admission was respiratory failure. Bacteremia was confirmed in 55.8% of cases. Mechanical ventilation was required in 86% of admitted patients, while 27 patients developed septic shock. The length of stay in the intensive care unit was 13 (5-25) days, and the mortality rate was 14%. Necrotizing pneumonia was observed in 51% of cases. Conclusion. A high rate of community-acquired infection was identified. Necrotizing pneumonia was associated with a worse clinical course.

Severe Staphylococcus aureus infection in three pediatric intensive care units: analysis of cases of necrotizing pneumonia. / Severe Staphylococcus aureus infection in three pediatric intensive care units: analysis of cases of necrotizing pneumonia.

Staphylococcus aureus frequently affects human beings. Among clinical manifestations, necrotizing pneumonia is associated with a high mortality rate. Our objective is to describe the progress of severe Staphylococcus aureus infections in three intensive care units and analyze cases ofnecrotizing pneumonia in the period ranging from January 2011 to March 2013. Forty-three patients were studied, 76.7

had a community-acquired infection, and 31 had community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. The main reason for admission was respiratory failure. Bacteremia was confirmed in 55.8

of cases. Mechanical ventilation was required in 86

of admitted patients, while 27 patients developed septic shock. The length of stay in the intensive care unit was 13 (5-25) days, and the mortality rate was 14

. Necrotizing pneumonia was observed in 51

of cases. Conclusion. A high rate of community-acquired infection was identified. Necrotizing pneumonia was associated with a worse clinical course.