Friday, October 29, 2010

Paucis Verbis card: Algorithm for suspected pertussis in pediatrics


To treat for pertussis or not? 

In the setting of the current pertussis epidemic in California, each kid with a cough sparks constant debate about whether to treat with azithromycin or not. Finally, thanks to my friends Dr. Andi Marmor and Dr. Shon Agarwal Jain (UCSF Pediatrics faculty), there's a great algorithm to help you answer the question. I have found this algorithm extremely helpful.

You basically start by risk-stratifying by age and pertussis immunization status. For instance, if the patient is <3 months of age (or >6 months of age AND unimmunized), then follow the algorithm listed as "High Risk for Pertussis".


(click to enlarge)

Feel free to download this card and print on a 4'' x 6'' index card.

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2 comments:

  1. Great.

    Is this what is used at UCSF?

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  2. Yes, this is what I'm using. I'm at San Francisco General Hospital's ED, and the algorithm is approved by SF's Department of Public Health.

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