Prognostic accuracy of qSOFA at triage in patients with suspected infection in a Brazilian emergency department.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the prognostic accuracy of qSOFA for predicting in-hospital mortality among patients with suspected infection presenting to the ED of a public tertiary hospital in Brazil. METHODS: We performed a retrospective cohort study of consecutive adult patients (age ≥ 18 years) with suspected infection who presented to an academic tertiary ED in Porto Alegre (Southern Brazil) during an 18-month period. The qSOFA was calculated by using information collected at triage and patients were followed throughout hospitalization for the primary outcome of in-hospital mortality. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios, and diagnostic odds ratios with corresponding 95% CIs were calculated for the qSOFA and qSOFA65. RESULTS: A total of 7523 ED visits of patients with suspected infection in which an intravenous antibiotic was administered within 24 h were included, which resulted in 908 in-hospital deaths (12.1%). There were 690 (9.2%) patients whose triage qSOFA was ≥2 points. When such cutoff was used, the sensitivity for in-hospital death was 24.6% (95% CI 21.8 to 27.4%) and the specificity was 92.9% (95% CI 92.3% to 93.5%). The sensitivity increased to 67.4% (95% CI 64.2% to 70.3%) when a cutoff of ≥1 was tested, but the specificity decreased to 55.3% (95% CI 54.1% to 56.5%). Using a cutoff of ≥2, the qSOFA65 had a sensitivity of 51.0% (95% CI 47.7% to 54.3%) and a specificity of 75.7% (95% CI 74.6% to 76.7%). CONCLUSIONS: The qSOFA score yielded very low sensitivity in predicting in-hospital mortality. Emergency physicians or ED triage nurses in low-to-middle income countries should not be using qSOFA or qSOFA65 as "rule-out" screening tools in the initial evaluation of patients with suspected infection.

Measurement of the interbronchial angle in acute viral bronchiolitis.

BACKGROUND: Acute viral bronchiolitis (AVB) is the most common lower airway infection in children under 2 years. Attempts to determine disease severity based on clinical and radiological manifestations are a major challenge. Measurements of the anatomy of the trachea and main bronchi are not only limited to pure anthropometry, but are also useful for better care of critically ill patients. The purpose of the study is to verify the association between measurements of the interbronchial angle (ITB) and the severity of respiratory disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional study, which included all patients admitted to the Santo Antônio Children's Hospital, over a period of 1 year, with diagnosis of AVB by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was designed. ITB angle was measured and clinical characteristics were analyzed. Quantitative variables were compared and correlation analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation coefficient. A receiving operator characteristic (ROC) curve was performed. P-value <0.05 was statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 425 patients with AVB due to RSV were included. Most of these patients were male and the median age was 130 days, 91.11% of them required oxygen therapy through a nasal catheter, 3.3% used noninvasive ventilation and 4% used mechanical ventilation. Those who required MV or NIV and intensive care unit support were considered severe. The mean ITB was lower for these patients than for those of lesser severity (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrates that there is an association between ITB and AVB severity. The smaller the ITB, the greater the disease severity.

Risk factors for severe COVID-19 infection in Brazilian children.

The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological characteristics and clinical outcome of children hospitalized with COVID-19 and identify the risk factors for severe disease. All hospital admissions of pediatric patients between March and December 2020 in the southern region of Brazil were reviewed and the patients positive for RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 were identified. This region encompasses a population of over 2.8 million children and adolescents. Data were extracted from a national database that includes all cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome requiring hospitalization in Brazil. A total of 288 hospitalizations (51.3% female) with a median age of 3 years (interquartile range 0-12 years) were identified. Of these, 38.9% had chronic medical conditions, 55.6% required some form of supplementary oxygen, and 30.2% were admitted to an intensive care unit. There were 17 deaths (5.9%) related to COVID-19. Age less than 30 days was significantly associated with increased odds of critical illness (OR 9.52, 95% CI 3.01-30.08), as well as the presence of one chronic condition (OR 5.08 95%CI 2.78-9.33) or two or more chronic conditions (OR 6.60, 95% CI 3.17-13.74). Conclusion: Age under 30 days old and presence of chronic conditions were strongly associated with unfavorable outcomes in Brazilian children with SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings could help local public health authorities to develop specific policies to protect this more vulnerable group of children.

Use of magnesium sulfate in continuous infusion in patients with severe acute asthma, in a pediatric emergency room.

INTRODUCTION: Asthma is a chronic disease, of high prevalence, with important morbidity and that can lead to death in childhood. The use of intravenous magnesium sulfate has been indicated in cases refractory to the initial management with inhaled bronchodilators and corticosteroids. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of magnesium sulfate in continuous infusion (50 mg/kg/h in 4 h) in children with severe acute asthma in a pediatric emergency room. LOCATION: Ten-bed general pediatric emergency room, university hospital, tertiary, in southern Brazil. PATIENTS: All children over 2 years old with severe acute asthma refractory to the initial treatment who received a continuous infusion of magnesium sulfate at a dose of 50 mg/kg/h in 4 h, from April 2017 to October 2019. CONCLUSION: Based on this study, the use of continuous intravenous magnesium sulfate proved to be well tolerated, leading to improved respiratory status, and can be considered as a satisfactory adjunctive therapy in the management of severe acute asthma.

Impact of A/H1N1 influenza in children at a Brazilian University Hospital.

BACKGROUND: A/H1N1 influenza is a viral disease that affects a significant part of the population mainly in winter, leading to increased number of medical consultations, hospitalizations and consequently care spending in emergency. METHODS: This is a case-series retrospective study, involving patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil in 2016 with a clinical diagnosis of acute respiratory infection of the influenza type and laboratory confirmation of influenza A/H1N1. RESULTS: 64 patients were included, mostly male, median age of 48.3 months. Chronic underlying diseases were found in 73% of the patients, and these patients evolved to the most unfavorable outcome. About vaccination, of the 57 patients with an age range for vaccination, only 28% had complete vaccination coverage. The main clinical manifestations found in the included patients were fever, cough, intercostal indrawing, wheezing, tachypnea and pulmonary crackles. These patients were mainly followed-up with laboratory tests and chest X-ray. Consolidation was evident in 43% of patients followed by interstitial infiltrate in 33%. A five-day course of neuraminidase inhibitor was prescribed for all patients, as recommended by the WHO, but due to the complications, 73% of the patients required antibiotic therapy, and 61% oxygen therapy. The majority of patients had a favorable outcome, but 11 required intensive care and one died. CONCLUSIONS: A/H1N1 influenza persists as an important public health problem, mainly due to high morbidity and hospitalization rates. It is important to identify patients with A/H1N1 influenza and clinical situations with higher risk of complications. Through this study, it is possible to analyze the characteristics of pediatric patients with A/H1N1 influenza and mainly to emphasize assistance of populations with comorbidities, since they present higher rates of complications and death.

Lean methodology implementation in the emergency department of a university hospital: management and sustainable development / Implantación de la metodología lean en el servicio de urgencias de un hospital universitario: gestión y desarrollo sostenible / Implementação da metodologia lean na emergência de um hospital universitário: gestão e desenvolvimento sustentável

ABSTRACT Objective: to describe the implementation of the Lean Methodology in an emergency department and its contribution to sustainable and quality management. Method: this is a methodological study carried out between October 2018 and January 2022 in the adult emergency department of a public university hospital in southern Brazil, analyzing the results before and after the implementation of the Lean Methodology. The study followed the model and standards adopted by the Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence 2.0 (SQUIRE) for the description of improvement cycle standards. Results: with the implementation of this methodology, actions were developed, such as innovations in work routines, both care and management, changes in patient reception with risk classification, construction of units for patient care and allocation, daily interdisciplinary meetings (huddle), full contingency plan, hospital discharge routines, external transfers, changes in the communication process with users and professionals, among other actions. Conclusion: the use of the Lean Methodology has resulted in a reduction in occupancy, which has helped to optimize health resources and ensure quality care and management practices. This reduction is believed to be proof of sustainable management in health services and contributes to reducing socio-economic inequalities.

RESUMEN Objetivo: describir la aplicación de la Metodología Lean en un servicio de urgencias y su contribución a una gestión sostenible y de calidad. Método: se trata de un estudio metodológico realizado entre octubre de 2018 y enero de 2022 en el servicio de urgencias de adultos de un hospital universitario público del sur de Brasil, analizando los resultados antes y después de la implementación de la Metodología Lean. El estudio siguió el modelo y las normas adoptadas por el Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence 2.0 (SQUIRE) para describir las normas de los ciclos de mejora. Resultados: con la implementación de esta metodología, se desarrollaron acciones como innovaciones en las rutinas de trabajo, tanto asistenciales como de gestión, cambios en la recepción con clasificación de riesgo, construcción de unidades de atención y asignación de pacientes, reuniones interdisciplinarias diarias (huddle), plan de contingencia completo, rutinas de alta hospitalaria, traslados externos, cambios en el proceso de comunicación con usuarios y profesionales, entre otras acciones. Conclusión: la utilización de la Metodología Lean ha dado lugar a una reducción de los efectivos, lo que ha permitido optimizar los recursos de atención sanitaria y garantizar prácticas asistenciales y de gestión de calidad. Se considera que esta reducción es una prueba de gestión sostenible en los servicios de salud y contribuye a reducir las desigualdades socioeconómicas.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever a implementação da Metodologia Lean em um serviço de emergência, e a contribuição para uma gestão sustentável e de qualidade. Método: Trata-se de estudo metodológico, realizado entre outubro de 2018 a janeiro de 2022, no serviço de emergência adulto de um hospital público universitário no Sul do Brasil, com análise de resultados antes e após a implementação da Metodologia Lean. O estudo seguiu o modelo e as normas adotadas pelo Standards for Quality Improvement Reporting Excellence 2.0 (SQUIRE) para a descrição dos padrões dos ciclos de melhoria. Resultados: Com a implementação desta metodologia, foram desenvolvidas ações, como inovações nas rotinas de trabalho, tanto assistenciais como gerenciais, mudanças no acolhimento com classificação de risco, construção de unidades para atendimento e alocação de pacientes, reuniões diárias interdisciplinares (huddle), plano de contingência pleno, rotinas de altas hospitalares, transferências externas, mudança no processo de comunicação com usuários e profissionais, dentre outras ações. Conclusão: A utilização da Metodologia Lean resultou na diminuição da lotação e com isto pode-se otimizar recursos de saúde e assegurar práticas assistenciais e gerenciais de qualidade. Acredita-se que esta diminuição seja a comprovação de uma gestão sustentável em serviços de saúde e colabora para a redução de desigualdades socioeconômicas.

Quantification of Abdominal Fat in Obese and Healthy Adolescents Using 3 Tesla Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Free Software for Image Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Computed tomography, which uses ionizing radiation and expensive software packages for analysis of scans, can be used to quantify abdominal fat. The objective of this study is to measure abdominal fat with 3T MRI using free software for image analysis and to correlate these findings with anthropometric and laboratory parameters in adolescents. METHODS: This prospective observational study included 24 overweight/obese and 33 healthy adolescents (mean age 16.55 years). All participants underwent abdominal MRI exams. Visceral and subcutaneous fat area and percentage were correlated with anthropometric parameters, lipid profile, glucose metabolism, and insulin resistance. Student's t test and Mann-Whitney's test was applied. Pearson's chi-square test was used to compare proportions. To determine associations Pearson's linear correlation or Spearman's correlation were used. RESULTS: In both groups, waist circumference (WC) was associated with visceral fat area (P = 0.001 and P = 0.01 respectively), and triglycerides were associated with fat percentage (P = 0.046 and P = 0.071 respectively). In obese individuals, total cholesterol/HDL ratio was associated with visceral fat area (P = 0.03) and percentage (P = 0.09), and insulin and HOMA-IR were associated with visceral fat area (P = 0.001) and percentage (P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS: 3T MRI can provide reliable and good quality images for quantification of visceral and subcutaneous fat by using a free software package. The results demonstrate that WC is a good predictor of visceral fat in obese adolescents and visceral fat area is associated with total cholesterol/HDL ratio, insulin and HOMA-IR.

Manejo da coroidite interna punctata complicada por membrana neovascular sub-retiniana / Management of punctate inner choroidopathy complicated by subretinal neovascular membrane

RESUMO Este trabalho visou evidenciar a importância da detecção precoce da coroidite interna punctata e destacar sua fisiopatologia inflamatória e possíveis diagnósticos diferenciais dentro das white dot syndromes. O destaque foi dado principalmente à coroidite multifocal e à panuveíte, ao se demonstrar sua epidemiologia peculiar em mulheres jovens, caracterizar sua apresentação clínica típica na fundoscopia e explorar as vantagens e as desvantagens de realizar os exames complementares que fazem parte da análise multimodal útil para o diagnóstico (especialmente a angiografia fluoresceínica, a tomografia de coerência óptica e a indocianina verde). Descreve-se o caso de uma mulher de 28 anos diagnosticada com coroidite interna punctata com membrana neovascular coroidal em olho direito. O tratamento foi realizado com injeção intravítrea de aflibercepte e corticoterapia sistêmica 1mg/kg ao dia. Este relato é importante por permitir debater o manejo da coroidite interna punctata durante a gestação e a decisão de realizar o tratamento mediante uma diversidade de opções terapêuticas.

ABSTRACT This work aimed to demonstrate the importance of early detection of punctate inner choroidopathy, highlighting the pathophysiology of inflammation and the differential diagnoses among white dot syndromes. Special attention was given to multifocal choroiditis and panuveitis, by demonstrating the peculiar epidemiology in young women, characterizing the typical clinical presentation in ophthalmoscopy, and exploring the advantages and disadvantages of performing the complementary examinations, which are part of the multimodal analysis useful for diagnosis (particularly fluorescein angiography, optical coherence tomography, and indocyanine green). We report the case of a 28-year-old female, diagnosed as punctate inner choroidopathy with choroidal [N.T. no título aparece subretinal = subrretiniana] neovascular membrane in the right eye. She was treated with intravitreal injection of aflibercept and systemic corticosteroid 1 mg/kg/day. This case report is important for addressing the management of punctate inner choroidopathy during pregnancy, and the decision to carry out treatment considering diverse therapeutic options.

Comparison of two maintenance electrolyte solutions in children in the postoperative appendectomy period: a randomized, controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare two electrolyte maintenance solutions in the postoperative period in children undergoing appendectomy, in relation to the occurrence of hyponatremia and water retention. METHODS: A randomized clinical study involving 50 pediatric patients undergoing appendectomy, who were randomized to receive 2,000mL/m(2)/day of isotonic (Na 150 mEq/L or 0.9% NaCl) or hypotonic (Na 30 mEq/L NaCl or 0.18%) solution. Electrolytes, glucose, urea, and creatinine were measured at baseline, 24h, and 48h after surgery. Volume infused, diuresis, weight, and water balance were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients had initial hyponatremia; in this group, 13 received hypotonic solution. Seventeen patients remained hyponatremic 48h after surgery, of whom ten had received hypotonic solution. In both groups, sodium levels increased at 24h (137.4±2.2 and 137.0±2.7mmol/L), with no significant difference between them (p=0.593). Sodium levels 48h after surgery were 136.6±2.7 and 136.2±2.3mmol/L in isotonic and hypotonic groups, respectively, with no significant difference. The infused volume and urine output did not differ between groups during the study. The water balance was higher in the period before surgery in patients who received hypotonic solution (p=0.021). CONCLUSIONS: In the post-appendectomy period, the use of hypotonic solution (30 mEq/L, 0.18%) did not increase the risk of hyponatremia when compared to isotonic saline. The use of isotonic solution (150 mEq/L, 0.9%) did not favor hypernatremia in these patients. Children who received hypotonic solution showed higher cumulative fluid balance in the preoperative period.

Comparison of two analgesia protocols for the treatment of pediatric orthopedic emergencies.

OBJECTIVE: to compare the efficacy of two analgesia protocols (ketamine versus morphine) associated with midazolam for the reduction of dislocations or closed fractures in children. METHODS: randomized clinical trial comparing morphine (0.1mg/kg; max 5mg) and ketamine (2.0mg/kg, max 70mg) associated with midazolam (0.2mg/kg; max 10mg) in the reduction of dislocations or closed fractures in children treated at the pediatrics emergency room (October 2010 and September 2011). The groups were compared in terms of the times to perform the procedures, analgesia, parent satisfaction and orthopedic team. RESULTS: 13 patients were allocated to ketamine and 12 to morphine, without differences in relation to age, weight, gender, type of injury, and pain scale before the intervention. There was no failure in any of the groups, no differences in time to start the intervention and overall procedure time. The average hospital stay time was similar (ketamine = 10.8+5.1h versus morphine = 12.3+4.4hs; p=0.447). The median pain (faces pain scale) scores after the procedure was 2 in both groups. Amnesia was noted in 92.3% (ketamine) and 83.3% (morphine) (p=0.904). Parents said they were very satisfied in relation to the analgesic intervention (84.6% in the ketamine group and 66.6% in the morphine group; p=0.296). The satisfaction of the orthopedist regarding the intervention was 92.3% in the ketamine group and 75% in the morphine group (p=0.222). CONCLUSION: by producing results similar to morphine, ketamine can be considered as an excellent option in pain management and helps in the reduction of dislocations and closed fractures in pediatric emergency rooms.

Síndrome de Blau: infiltrados subepiteliais como manifestações oftalmológicas incomuns / Blau Syndrome: subepithelial infiltrates as uncommon ophthalmologic manifestation

Resumo A Síndrome de Blau é uma doença de caráter hereditário autossômico dominante a qual também pode ocorrer de forma esporádica via mutação "de novo". Em geral, tem aparecimento precoce ainda na primeira infância e sua tríade clássica inclui artrite, dermatite e uveíte. Este trabalho visa relatar as manifestações clínicas e principalmente oftalmológicas de uma paciente diagnosticada com Síndrome de Blau com ênfase ao achado incomum de infiltrados corneanos subepiteliais, raramente descrito na literatura.

Abstract The Blau syndrome is an autosomal dominant hereditary disease which can also occur sporadically via "de novo" mutation. Overall it has early onset and its classic triad includes arthritis, dermatitis and uveitis. This paper describes clinical and mainly especially ophthalmologic manifestations of a patient diagnosed with Blau syndrome with emphasis on an uncommon finding of corneal subepithelial infiltrates, rarely described in the literature.

Impact of A/H1N1 influenza in children at a Brazilian University Hospital

ABSTRACT Background A/H1N1 influenza is a viral disease that affects a significant part of the population mainly in winter, leading to increased number of medical consultations, hospitalizations and consequently care spending in emergency. Methods This is a case-series retrospective study, involving patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil in 2016 with a clinical diagnosis of acute respiratory infection of the influenza type and laboratory confirmation of influenza A/H1N1. Results 64 patients were included, mostly male, median age of 48.3 months. Chronic underlying diseases were found in 73% of the patients, and these patients evolved to the most unfavorable outcome. About vaccination, of the 57 patients with an age range for vaccination, only 28% had complete vaccination coverage. The main clinical manifestations found in the included patients were fever, cough, intercostal indrawing, wheezing, tachypnea and pulmonary crackles. These patients were mainly followed-up with laboratory tests and chest X-ray. Consolidation was evident in 43% of patients followed by interstitial infiltrate in 33%. A five-day course of neuraminidase inhibitor was prescribed for all patients, as recommended by the WHO, but due to the complications, 73% of the patients required antibiotic therapy, and 61% oxygen therapy. The majority of patients had a favorable outcome, but 11 required intensive care and one died. Conclusions A/H1N1 influenza persists as an important public health problem, mainly due to high morbidity and hospitalization rates. It is important to identify patients with A/H1N1 influenza and clinical situations with higher risk of complications. Through this study, it is possible to analyze the characteristics of pediatric patients with A/H1N1 influenza and mainly to emphasize assistance of populations with comorbidities, since they present higher rates of complications and death.

Cerebrospinal fluid eosinophilia associated with intraventricular shunts.

CSF eosinophilia (CSF-eo) is uncommon and is usually caused by helminthic infections. However, it has also been found in ∼30% of patients experiencing intraventricular shunt malfunctions. We present a case report and review the conditions associated with CSF-eo and their prophylaxis. An 8 year-old boy with tetraventricular hydrocephalus has had several shunt malfunctions over the last three years. During hospitalization in January 2009 for shunt revision, a transient 30% eosinophilia was detected in his cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) concomitant with Staphylococcus epidermidis infection and long term vancomycin administration. After several shunt replacements and antibiotic treatment, CSF-eo eventually disappeared with good overall clinical response. CSF-eo is a transient and focal event mainly associated with infection, reactions to foreign substances, particles or blood, or obstruction of tubing by normal or fibro-granulomatous tissues. Infection associated with CSF-eo is usually caused by S. epidermidis and Propioniumbacterium acnes. In addition to infection, allergy to silicone and other foreign materials may also be a cause of CSF-eo. We review the diversity of conditions and proposed mechanisms associated with CSF-eo, as well as recommendations for the care of patients with shunts. Detection of CSF-eo has been shown to be a useful indicator of shunt malfunction. As such, it provides physicians with an indicator of a hypersensitivity reaction that is underway or the need to identify bacterial infection. We also highlight the need for improved biocompatibility of shunt hardware and describe strategies to avoid conditions leading to shunt malfunction.

A prevalência de obesidade na infância e adolescência é maior em escolas públicas no sul do Brasil / The prevalence of obesity in childhood and adolescence is higher in public schools in the South of Brazil

Objetivo: Analisar as medidas antropométricas dos escolares de Veranópolis, Rio Grande do Sul, sul do Brasil, considerando a incidência de obesidade e sobrepeso e a sua relação com o tipo de escola frequentada (pública ou privada). Métodos: Estudo transversal envolvendo todos os escolares da rede pública e privada de Veranópolis-RS a partir de uma coorte iniciada em 2012. As medidas estudadas foram peso, altura e índice de massa corporal. Todos os pais ou responsáveis pelos escolares amostrados responderam a um questionário padronizado sobre antecedentes médicos pessoais e familiares. Para o diagnóstico de sobrepeso e obesidade foram usados os critérios da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) e do Centro de Controle e Prevenção de Doenças (CDC-USA). Na análise dos dados foram usadas a estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados: Foram amostrados 2150 escolares entre 6 e 18 anos de idade, sendo 1725 (80%) de escolas públicas e 425 (20%) de escolas privadas. A maioria da população era caucasiana (85,3%) e moradora de zona urbana (89%). Entre os escolares menores de 10 anos, utilizando-se percentil ou escore Z, a prevalência de sobrepeso e obesidade foi de 21% e de baixa estatura de 1,4%. A obesidade medida pelo IMC (percentil) foi mais prevalente em escolares menores de 10 anos (23,8 vs 16,4; p< 0,05). Para essa faixa etá- ria, a distribuição de sobrepeso e obesidade não demonstrou diferença estatisticamente significativa entre escolas públicas e privadas. Entretanto, para os escolares com idade entre 10 e 18 anos, a obesidade foi significativamente mais prevalente nas escolas públicas, tanto utilizando percentil (17,5 vs 6,7%; p< 0,05), quanto escore Z (15,8 vs 5,6%; p< 0,05). Conclusões: O sobrepeso e a obesidade são condições clí- nicas muito frequentes entre escolares de Veranópolis-RS, concordando com estatísticas nacionais e internacionais. A prevalência de obesidade é maior entre escolares menores de 10 anos, sem diferenças na distribuição por escolas públicas ou privadas. Entretanto, na faixa entre 10 e 18 anos, a prevalência de obesidade é mais significativa nas escolas públicas, indicando a participação de um forte componente social, ambiental e educacional na sua origem. Outros fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento da obesidade entre escolares devem ser estudados (AU)

Objective: To analyse the anthropometric measurements of Veranópolis (Rio Grande do Sul, south of Brazil) students, whereas the incidence of obesity and overweight and the association of these clinical conditions with the type of school attended (public or private). Methods: A cross-sectional study involving all students of public and private schools of Veranópolis-RS from a cohort initiated in 2012. Anthropometric measures were weight, height and body mass index. All parents or guardians by the sampled students responded to a standardized questionnaire, involving personal medical and family background. For the diagnosis of overweight and obesity, criteria from the WHO and CDC were used. For data analysis, descriptive and inferential statistics were performed. Results: We sampled 2150 students between 6 and 18 years of age, being 1725 (80%) of public schools and 425 (20%) of private schools. The majority of the population was Caucasians (85.3%) and resident of an urban zone (89%). Among the students under 10 years of age, using percentile or Z-score, the prevalence of overweight and obesity was 21% and short stature was 1.4%. Obesity, as measured by BMI (percentile), was more prevalent in students under 10 years of age (23.8 vs 16.4; p < 0.05). For this age group, the distribution of overweight and obesity did not show statistically significant difference between public and private schools. However, for students aged between 10 and 18 years, obesity was significantly more prevalent in public schools, both using percentile (17.5 vs. 6.7%; p < 0.05) or Z-score (15.8 vs. 5.6%; p < 0.05). Conclusions: Overweight and obesity are very common medical conditions among students of Veranópolis-RS, according to national and international statistics. The prevalence of obesity is higher among students under 10 years of age, without differences in distribution by public or private schools. However, in the range between 10 and 18 years of age, the prevalence of obesity is more significant in the public schools, indicating a strong social, environmental and educational component at its source. Other risk factors for the development of obesity among students between 6 and 18 years of age must be studied (AU)

Comparison of two analgesia protocols for the treatment of pediatric orthopedic emergencies / Comparação de dois protocolos de analgesia para tratamento de emergências ortopédicas pediátricas

SummaryObjective:to compare the efficacy of two analgesia protocols (ketamine versus morphine) associated with midazolam for the reduction of dislocations or closed fractures in children.Methods:randomized clinical trial comparing morphine (0.1mg/kg; max 5mg) and ketamine (2.0mg/kg, max 70mg) associated with midazolam (0.2mg/kg; max 10mg) in the reduction of dislocations or closed fractures in children treated at the pediatrics emergency room (October 2010 and September 2011). The groups were compared in terms of the times to perform the procedures, analgesia, parent satisfaction and orthopedic team.Results:13 patients were allocated to ketamine and 12 to morphine, without differences in relation to age, weight, gender, type of injury, and pain scale before the intervention. There was no failure in any of the groups, no differences in time to start the intervention and overall procedure time. The average hospital stay time was similar (ketamine = 10.8+5.1h versus morphine = 12.3+4.4hs; p=0.447). The median pain (faces pain scale) scores after the procedure was 2 in both groups. Amnesia was noted in 92.3% (ketamine) and 83.3% (morphine) (p=0.904). Parents said they were very satisfied in relation to the analgesic intervention (84.6% in the ketamine group and 66.6% in the morphine group; p=0.296). The satisfaction of the orthopedist regarding the intervention was 92.3% in the ketamine group and 75% in the morphine group (p=0.222).Conclusion:by producing results similar to morphine, ketamine can be considered as an excellent option in pain management and helps in the reduction of dislocations and closed fractures in pediatric emergency rooms.

ResumoObjetivo:comparar a eficácia de dois protocolos de analgesia (cetamina versus morfina) associados ao midazolam para a redução de luxações ou fraturas fechadas em crianças.Métodos:ensaio clínico randomizado comparando morfina (0,1 mg/kg; máx. 5 mg) e cetamina (2,0 mg/kg; máx. 70 mg) associados a midazolam (0,2 mg/kg; máx. 10 mg) na redução de luxações ou fraturas fechadas em crianças atendidas em emergência pediátrica, no período de outubro de 2010 a setembro de 2011. Os grupos foram comparados segundo os seguintes indicadores: tempo para realizar os procedimentos, analgesia, satisfação de pais e da equipe ortopédica.Resultados:treze pacientes foram alocados para cetamina e 12 para morfina, sem diferenças em relação a idade, peso, gênero, tipo de lesão e escala da dor antes da intervenção. Não houve falha em nenhum dos grupos, sem diferenças no tempo para iniciar a intervenção e no tempo total de procedimento. O tempo médio de hospitalização foi similar (cetamina=10,8±5,1 h versus morfina=12,3±4,4 h; p=0,447). A mediana de dor (escala de faces da dor) após o procedimento foi de 2 em ambos os grupos. Amnésia foi observada em 92,3% (cetamina) e 83,3% (morfina) (p=0,904). Os pais declararam estar muito satisfeitos em relação à intervenção analgésica (84,6% no grupo cetamina e 66,6% no grupo morfina; p=0,296). A satisfação do ortopedista em relação à intervenção foi de 92,3% no grupo cetamina e 75% no grupo da morfina (p=0,222).Conclusão:a cetamina, ao apresentar resultados semelhantes à morfina, pode ser considerada uma excelente opção no manejo da dor e no auxílio da redução de luxações e fraturas fechadas em salas de emergência pediátrica.

Comparison of two maintenance electrolyte solutions in children in the postoperative appendectomy period: a randomized, controlled trial / Comparação de duas soluções para manutenção hidroeletrolítica no pós-operatório de apendicectomia em crianças: um estudo controlado e randomizado

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE: To compare two electrolyte maintenance solutions in the postoperative period in children undergoing appendectomy, in relation to the occurrence of hyponatremia and water retention. METHODS: A randomized clinical study involving 50 pediatric patients undergoing appendectomy, who were randomized to receive 2,000 mL/m2/day of isotonic (Na 150 mEq/L or 0.9% NaCl) or hypotonic (Na 30 mEq/L NaCl or 0.18%) solution. Electrolytes, glucose, urea, and creatinine were measured at baseline, 24 h, and 48 h after surgery. Volume infused, diuresis, weight, and water balance were analyzed. RESULTS: Twenty-four patients had initial hyponatremia; in this group, 13 received hypotonic solution. Seventeen patients remained hyponatremic 48 h after surgery, of whom ten had received hypotonic solution. In both groups, sodium levels increased at 24 h (137.4 ± 2.2 and 137.0 ± 2.7 mmol/L), with no significant difference between them (p = 0.593). Sodium levels 48 h after surgery were 136.6 ± 2.7 and 136.2 ± 2.3 mmol/L in isotonic and hypotonic groups, respectively, with no significant difference. The infused volume and urine output did not differ between groups during the study. The water balance was higher in the period before surgery in patients who received hypotonic solution (p = 0.021). CONCLUSIONS: In the post-appendectomy period, the use of hypotonic solution (30 mEq/L, 0.18%) did not increase the risk of hyponatremia when compared to isotonic saline. The use of isotonic solution (150 mEq/L, 0.9%) did not favor hypernatremia in these patients. Children who received hypotonic solution showed higher cumulative fluid balance in the preoperative period.

RESUMO OBJETIVO: Comparar duas soluções de manutenção hidroeletrolítica no período pós-operatório (PO) de crianças submetidas à apendicectomia quanto à ocorrência de hiponatremia e retenção hídrica. MÉTODOS: Estudo clínico randomizado que envolveu 50 pacientes pediátricos submetidos à apendicectomia, randomizados para receber 2.000 ml/m2/dia de solução isotônica (Na 150 mEq/L ou NaCl 0,9%) ou hipotônica (Na 30mEq/L ou NaCl 0,18%). Eletrólitos, glicose, ureia e creatinina foram mensurados no início do estudo, 24 e 48 horas após a cirurgia. Foram analisados volume infundido, diurese, peso e balanço hídrico. RESULTADOS: Apresentaram hiponatremia inicial 24 pacientes. Desses, 13 receberam solução hipotônica. Dezessete pacientes permaneceram hiponatrêmicas 48 horas após a cirurgia, 10 haviam recebido solução hipotônica. Nos dois grupos os níveis de sódio aumentaram na 24ª hora PO (137,4 ± 2,2 e 137,0 ± 2,7) e não houve diferença entre eles (p = 0,593). Níveis de sódio 48 h após a cirurgia foram 136,6 ± 2,7 e 136,2 ± 2,3 no grupo isotônico e hipotônico respectivamente sem diferença significativa. Os volumes infundidos e a diurese não diferiram entre os grupos durante o estudo. O balanço hídrico foi maior no período anterior à cirurgia no grupo de pacientes que receberam solução hipotônica (p = 0,021). CONCLUSÕES: No período pós-apendicectomia, o uso da solução hipotônica não aumentou o risco de hiponatremia quando comparado com uma solução salina isotônica. O uso da solução isotônica não favoreceu a hipernatremia nesses pacientes. Crianças que receberam solução hipotônica apresentaram maior balanço hídrico cumulativo no período pré-operatório.

Síndrome da morte súbita do lactente / Sudden infant death syndrome

Entre as diversas causas de morte na infância, a Síndrome da Morte Súbita do Lactente (SMSL) assume posição de destaque. Estudos conduzidos nas últimas décadas foram capazes de elucidar os principais fatores epidemiológicos envolvidos, permitindo uma abordagem eficaz para reduzir significativamente a mortalidade por esta condição.

Among the many causes of death in childhood, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) assumes a prominent position. Researches conducted in recent decades were able to elucidate the main epidemiological factors involved, enabling effective approach to significantly reduce mortality from this condition.

Avaliação inicial da síndrome nefrótica na infância / Initial assessment of nephrotic syndrome in childhood

A síndrome nefrótica (SN) é caracterizada por proteinúria maciça, hipoalbuminemia, edema e hipercolesterolemia. Na infância, 80% dos casos correspondem à SN primária ou idiopática (SNI), correspondendo o restante a causas secundárias e associação com doenças sistêmicas, metabólicas, infecciosas, entre outras. Através de uma revisão bibliográfica, o presente artigo dissertará sobre a avaliação inicial da síndrome nefrótica na infância e o manejo da mesma, com ênfase em abordagem na unidade de emergência pediátrica.

Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is portrayed by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, edema and hypercholesterolemia. In childhood, 80% of cases correspond to the primary or idiopathic NS, and the remainder comprises the secondary causes and association with systemic, metabolic and infectious diseases, among others. Through a bibliographic review, the present article will dissert over the initial evaluation of nephrotic syndrome in childhood and its management, with emphasis on approach in the pediatric emergency room.

Estudo controlado do uso endovenoso de sulfato de magnésio ou de salbutamol no tratamento precoce da crise de asma aguda grave em crianças / Randomized clinical trial of intravenous magnesium sulfate versus salbutamol in the early management of severe acute asthma in children

Objetivo: estudar os efeitos da administração endovenosa de sulfato de magnésio (MgEV) ou de salbutamol (SalbEV) em crianças com crise de asma aguda. Método: estudo randomizado, duplo-cego e controlado por placebo. Incluídas crianças maiores de dois anos admitidas em sala de observação em crise de asma aguda grave (refratária a três nebulizações com beta-adrenérgicos). Após a admissão, recebiam tratamento convencional (oxigênio, corticóides, nebulizações com beta-adrenérgicos) e eram alocadas a receber uma de três soluções indistiguíveis entre si: a)MgEV(50 mg/kg); b)SalbEV(20 microg/kg); ou c)solução salina que eram adiminstradas em 20 minutos (1ml/kg/hora). Avaliações clínicas, dosagens de eletrólitos e gases arteriais foram registrados antes e 1 hora após a infusão das drogas. Resultados: foram estudados 50 pacientes (+-4,5 anos 53 por cento de meninas), sem diferenças significativas entre os tres grupos. No grupo MgEV, observou-se redução da pressão arterial durante a infusão, que retornou ao normal 1 hora após, associado com aumento (P<0,001) do magnésio e pH sérico e diminuição no PaCO2. No grupo SalbEV, durante adiministração, observou-se diminuição da frequência respiratória (=0,05) e aumento da pressão arterial< (p=0,01), Após 1 hora, houve diminuição da frequência respiratória (p=0,02); queda no potássio sérico (p=0,009), no PaCO2 e elevação no pH. Comparado com os grupos MgEV e placebo, grupo SalbEV necessitou menos nebulizações (p=0,009), menor número de nebulizações por paciente por dia (p<0,001) e menor tempo de uso de oxigênio. No grupo placebo, a acidose foi mais persistente (p<0,01)>. Não houve diferença no tempo de permanência hospitalar nos grupos. A ventilação mecânica foi necessária em 10 por cento dos casos. Conclusões: demosntrou-se que a administração endovenosa precoce de sulfato de magnésio e, pricipalmente, o salbutamol em associação ao tratamento convencional para asma aguda em crianças são terapêuticas efetivas e que podem potencializar o efeito broncodilatador