Pediatrics Now: Cases Updates and Discussions for the Busy Pediatric Practitioner UT Health San Antonio

Substance Use Update: Part 1
Link for CME credit will be posted Monday!
In this episode of Pediatrics Now, we are joined by Jennifer Sharpe Potter, Ph.D., M.P.H a professor of psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center and director of the Be Well Institute.   Host Holly Wayment and  Potter discuss the importance of addressing substance use among pediatric patients and offers valuable advice for healthcare pediatricians and providers.
Potter emphasizes the necessity for pediatricians to screen for substance use, even in young children, and highlights the increasing prevalence of early exposure to drugs and alcohol. She provides practical tips for initiating conversations with patients and their families about substance use, breaking down the stigma associated with it.
We delve into the challenges of treating substance use disorders, the misconceptions about marijuana, and the dangers of fentanyl-laced medications. Dr. Potter also shares information about the resources available through the Be Well Texas Institute and other state initiatives to support patients and families dealing with substance use disorders.
Don't miss this insightful episode that aims to empower pediatric practitioners with the knowledge and tools to better manage substance use issues in their practice.

Episode 36: Genetics for the Pediatrician
https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10095896
Genetics for the Pediatrician
Join host Holly Wayment on this episode of Pediatrics Now, as she presents an insightful talk from Grand Rounds by Natasha Shur, MD , focused on "Genetics for the Pediatrician." This episode is eligible for MOC credit.
Delve into an engaging and interactive discussion designed to simplify genetics for busy pediatric practitioners. Learn how to correctly identify top scenarios and genetic consults seen in daily clinics, understand basic categories of genetic disorders and tests, and explore the history of genetics to better categorize and diagnose patients.  To view the slides for this presentation, click here.
Through real-life case studies, discover the importance of recognizing common genetic conditions, the impact of genetic testing, and the balance of benefits versus risks. This episode emphasizes a phenotype-first approach, encouraging pediatricians to engage closely with patients and make informed diagnostic decisions.
Don't miss this comprehensive guide to integrating genetics into pediatric practice, ensuring better patient outcomes and more effective use of genetic testing.
FACULTY:
Natasha Shur, MD, is a professor of pediatrics at George Washington University and a medical geneticist at the Rare Disease Institute at Children’s National Hospital. She has been practicing as a medical geneticist for twenty years, and she has done numerous research and work focusing on child advocacy, pediatric innovation, and improving access for patients with rare disease.
 
OVERVIEW:
Join host Holly Wayment on this episode of Pediatrics Now, as she presents an insightful talk from Grand Rounds, focused on "Genetics for the Pediatrician." This episode is eligible for MOC credit.
 
Delve into an engaging and interactive discussion designed to simplify genetics for busy pediatric practitioners. Learn how to correctly identify top scenarios and genetic consults seen in daily clinics, understand basic categories of genetic disorders and tests, and explore the history of genetics to better categorize and diagnose patients.
 
Through real-life case studies, discover the importance of recognizing common genetic conditions, the impact of genetic testing, and the balance of benefits versus risks. This episode emphasizes a phenotype-first approach, encouraging pediatricians to engage closely with patients and make informed diagnostic decisions.
 
Don't miss this comprehensive guide to integrating genetics into pediatric practice, ensuring better patient outcomes and more effective use of genetic testing.
 
DISCLOSURES:
Natasha Shur, MD has no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.
 
The Pediatric Grand Rounds Planning Committee (Deepak Kamat, MD, PhD, Steven Seidner, MD, Daniel Ranch, MD and Elizabeth Hanson, MD) has no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. 
 
The UT Health Science Center San Antonio and Deepak Kamat, MD course director and content reviewer for the activity, have reviewed all financial disclosure information for all speakers, facilitators, and planning committee members; and determined and resolved all conflicts of interests.
 
CONTINUING MEDICAL EDUCATION STATEMENTS:
The UT Health Science Center San Antonio is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
 
The UT Health Science Center San Antonio designates this live activity up to a maximum of 1.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
 
CREDITS:AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™ (1.00)Non-Physician Participation Credit (1.00)
MOC 2 credit (1.00)
 

Episode 35: Melatonin Wake Up Call
Link for CME credit
https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10095855
 
FACULTY:
Karen Hentschel-Franks, DO is an associate professor in Pediatrics-Neurology at UT Health San Antonio.
 
OVERVIEW:
Pediatrics Now host an executive producer, Holly Wayment and sleep expert Dr. Karen Hentschel-Franks discuss growing concerns over the use of melatonin in children and the importance of sleep hygiene.
Dr. Franks, a recognized expert in the pediatric and sleep medicine field, underscores the need for educating children and parents about the potential dangers, emphasizing possible side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and irritability. Furthermore, she warns about the lack of regulatory control over melatonin, pushing for awareness in selecting only those products with a USP verified mark as a last resort.
The discussion delves into the uncharted territories of melatonin’s long-term effects. Reinforcing the mantra of patient-centric care, Dr. Franks suggests thorough patient evaluation and implementing sleep hygiene, along with behavioral interventions, before resorting to sleep aids like melatonin.
She lays out practical sleep hygiene strategies, including limiting screen time before bedtime, maintaining consistent routines, and addressing medical concerns related to sleep. You'll also learn about innovative techniques Dr. Franks uses to cultivate effective sleep routines in her patients, such as imagination exercises and positive reassurances.
Dr. Franks encourages a holistic approach to children’s sleep problems, highlighting the importance of addressing potential behavioral and environmental factors over relying on supplements.
You will not only learn about the nuances of sleep but also gain intriguing insights into maintaining work-life equilibrium in a demanding field like sleep medicine. Explore Dr. Franks' favorite relaxation activities and get a sneak peek into her clinic's day-to-day activities!
Wrapping up the conversation is an inspiring quote from Christopher Robin that embodies the spirit of strength and resilience. Tune in for an exceptional blend of science, wisdom, and charm centered around better sleep health.

Child Neglect: Signs, Symptoms and What to Do
Link for MOC Credit:
https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10095849
The Center for Miracles
In this powerful episode, Pediatrics Now Host Holly Wayment brings us a grand rounds talk by the University of Texas Health Science Center's Dr. Mary Ann Alvarez-Griffis, a child abuse fellow.  She sheds light on the critical issue of child neglect. Providing an in-depth analysis based on National Child Abuse and Neglect Data System (NCANDS) statistics, she challenges common misconceptions and highlights potential outcomes for children exposed to neglect.
The talk emphasizes the recurrent nature of neglect, its equal severity as physical abuse, and its long-term consequences on a child's peer relations, academic performance, and problem-solving skills. Special attention is given to children with special needs, who account for a significant percentage of child maltreatment fatalities.
Drawing from her rich experience in pediatric care and community education, Dr. Alvarez-Griffis unravels the devastating impact of neglect on children's growth, cognitive development, social skills and emotional wellbeing. Notably, she underscores poverty and insufficient social support as major risk factors, presenting a comprehensive exploration of neglect statistics.
The episode underscores the urgency of recognizing signs of physical neglect, fostering open, non-judgmental communication with caregivers, and effectively addressing potential issues. With detailed case studies, the discussion centers on the importance of thorough investigations and interventions. The significance of growth charts in identifying risk factors and possible neglect signs are also discussed.
Dr. Alvarez-Griffiths shines a spotlight on the severe consequences of medical neglect and emphasizes the need for a consistent medical regimen for children dealing with chronic conditions. The implications of neglectful behaviors, such as untimely medical care and poor home management of serious injuries, are explored in depth.
In conclusion, healthcare providers are urged to proactively leverage detailed examinations, thorough documentation, and persistent patient education to prevent child neglect and support affected families. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide, unpacking the intricate realities of child neglect, and proffering effective strategies for prevention and intervention.
Dr. Alvarez Griffis has dual undergraduate degrees of Pre-medical Biology and Political Science from University of Texas-Pan American (now UTRGV). She attended medical school at William Carey College of Osteopathic Medicine prior to completing her Pediatric Residency at UT Health Science Center in San Antonio where she continued to peruse a fellowship in Child Abuse Pediatrics. During fellowship training Dr. Alvarez Griffis has provided community education regarding child maltreatment to various audiences from pediatric residents to SAPD. She recently participated in updating the AAP Point of Care Quick Reference section on Physical Abuse and Neglect. She is a member of the Child Abuse and Neglect Committee of the Texas Pediatric Society and is also a member of the Council on Child Abuse and Neglect. Her fellows research project focuses on the importance of obtaining head circumferences in infants to prevent missed abusive head trauma.
Financial Disclosures: Mary Ann Alvarez Griffis, DO has no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.
The Pediatric Grand Rounds Planning Committee (Deepak Kamat MD, PhD, Daniel Ranch, MD and Elizabeth Hanson, MD) has no financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose. Planning Committee member Steven Seidner, MD has disclosed he receives funding from Draeger Medical for the Clinical Study to Evaluate the Safety and Effectiveness of the Infinity Acute Care System Workstation Neonatal Care Babylog VN500 Device in High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilat

A Crash Course in Concussions
CME Credit link:
https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10095827
 
Join us for an enlightening episode featuring Dr. Kenneth Nwosa, a distinguished sports medicine specialist, and head doctor for the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) Athletics. Dr. Nwosa shares his journey into sports medicine and provides rich insights from his diverse experience treating a wide range of patients. This episode comprehensively covers crucial aspects of concussions in contact sports, with Dr. Nwosa presenting data, highlighting common symptoms, and underlining the importance of recognition and adherence to sports-specific protocol.
Dr. Nwosa also shares his diagnosis strategy and the crucial role history-taking plays in accurate diagnosis. He emphasizes the significance of routine baseline screenings for concussion management and offers advice on effective utilization of online resources for cognitive function assessments. This episode especially equips pediatric practitioners with critical knowledge about red flags of head injuries requiring immediate evaluation. The emphasis is also on the need for an on-site athletic trainer in sports institutions for immediate attention to injuries and better communication among parents, coaches, and medical professionals.
The conversation goes beyond concussions, shedding light on the pressures faced by young athletes, the dangers of sports specialization, and the benefits of participating in varied sports. Dr. Nwosa promotes a balanced approach to children's sports experience, focusing on educating about bodily development and injury prevention rather than stressing professional anticipation. As a sports medicine specialist, Dr. Ken highlights the importance of comprehensive neuro exams for monitoring brain health post-concussion and offers practical tips on rest, recovery, and supplement use.
Listen in for Dr. Ken's unique take on balancing a demanding career in sports medicine with fatherhood. As a bonus, Dr. Ken shares his favourite Bible quote that motivates him to embrace discipline and determination, both in his practice and personal life.
To send a patient to Dr. Ken, we'll have referral information coming soon, listed here.

Staying Ahead of Headaches
Link for CME Credit:
https://cmetracker.net/UTHSCSA/Publisher?page=pubOpen#/getCertificate/10095792
 'Pediatrics Now',  welcomes Dr. Azra Akbar, a new member of our pediatric neurology team.  Our insightful discussion covers the much-encountered issue of headaches in children, giving a detailed overview of triggers, treatments and preventive methods for migraines. Dr. Akbar's personal experiences with migraines and her passion for the subject benefits us greatly in this discussion.
We delve into different migraine triggers and how they manifest in various symptoms. As a pediatric neurologist, Dr. Akbar also advises on when certain warning signs could indicate serious conditions.  Furthermore, we look into successful treatments and medications such as beta blockers, Topamax, and Botox, alongside alternative methods such as acupuncture and lifestyle modifications.
Dr. Akbar shares her empathetic approach to patient care and self-care, derived from her personal migraine experiences and her journey in the medical field. We also touch on the significance of balancing a healthy diet, the risk of medication overuse, the importance of good sleep patterns, and the crucial role of parental collaboration in managing children's health.