Mnemonic: ABCDEF

Appearance

* The ‘A’ in the pediatric assessment triangle* Interactive vs distant* Good tone vs floppy* Calm and happy vs inconsolable

Breathing

* The ‘B’ in the pediatric assessment triangle* Signs of respiratory distress* Nasal flaring* Retractions* Abnormal respiratory sounds

Color/Circulation

* The ‘C’ in the pediatric assessment triangle* Pink = good* Abnormalities* Pallor* Cyanosis* Mottling

Distraction

* Almost impossible to do a good peds exam in a crying kid* Easiest ways to keep kids distracted* Let parents hold/play with them* Toys* Stethoscope* Funny sounds/noises

ENT

* Many times the kids don’t localize the symptoms* May present with vomiting, fever, irritability, etc* If difficulty examining pharynx, consider triggering a gag reflex

Fully Undress

* Look for bruising, rash, blisters* Signs of non-accidental trauma* GU exam (especially in boys, check the testes!)

Additional Reading

* Peds Respiratory Disorders (EM Clerkship)* Pediatric Assessment Triangle (Wikipedia)