Pediatrics in Practice: A CME Podcast
Pediatrics in Practice is a CME podcast that features interviews with pediatric subspecialists. It covers timely and relevant topics for physicians and other providers who care for children. Some sessions offer continuing education credit, with information available on the podcast's website. The show aims to keep pediatric clinicians updated on practical, evidence-based care.
Episodes
When Should Teen Fainting Trigger Cardiac Referral?
Should a teen who fainted see a cardiologist? Syncope in adolescents is the issue, and Josh Holbert, DO, Medical Director, Cardiology Exercise Lab at Children's Mercy, explains which features merit urgent cardiac evaluation. Learn which red flags to watch for (no prodrome, exertional collapse, palpitations, family history), why a 12‑lead ECG and focused exam matter, and when primary care should re
When Should You Repeat a Child's CBC?
"I found an unexpected abnormal CBC — should I repeat it or refer?" This episode focuses on repeat testing and early steps for abnormal CBCs. Sara McElroy, MD, pediatric hematologist at Children's Mercy explains when mild changes can be safely rechecked versus urgent referral. She covers transient marrow suppression with infection, lab artifact and repeat timing (about 4–6 weeks), the role of retu
When to Refer a Child with High Blood Pressure
Should my child with persistent high BP see a specialist? Douglas Blowey, MD, Director of the Hypertension Clinic at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, outlines practical referral triggers for pediatricians. He discusses persistent or stage‑2 hypertension, symptomatic or emergency presentations, age under six, evidence of kidney disease or protein/blood on urinalysis, and failure of
What Causes Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Kids?
Why are my child's lymph nodes enlarged? Lymphadenopathy — Lori Morgan, MD, MCR, Physician, Hematology and Oncology at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, explains that infection is the most common cause and why lymph nodes enlarge during immune responses. Hear about typical locations (cervical, submandibular, submental), how thin children may show prominent nodes, why parents commonl
What Causes Heavy Menstrual Bleeding in Teens?
Curious why your teen’s periods are so heavy? Heavy menstrual bleeding and its causes are discussed. Lauren Amos, MD, MS, Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, and Ashli Lawson, MD, MS, Program Director, Pediatric & Adolescent Gynecology Fellowship at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, explain common contributors such as anovulatory cyc
Is My Child's Heart Murmur Dangerous?
Is my child's heart murmur dangerous or just harmless? Heart murmurs and when they matter — Pezad Doctor, MD, Pediatric Cardiology at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, and Mahmoud Jaara, MD, pediatric cardiology fellow at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, explain how to tell innocent murmurs (soft, systolic, short, position‑dependent) from concerning ones, which sympt
Sports Injuries You May Overlook
Could this recurring pain or sudden limp mean something more than a sprain? Greg Canty, MD, Medical Director, Sports Medicine Center at Children's Mercy, walks through how to recognize concerning pediatric sports injuries that are often missed. This episode covers X‑ray‑negative knee injuries (patella dislocation, ACL tear, meniscus), pelvic avulsion and transitional ankle growth plate fractures,
Is My Child's Pink Eye Contagious?
Is my child's pink eye contagious and how long will it last? Jennifer Qayum, OD, FAAO, Optometrist at Children's Mercy - Pediatrics in Practice - CME, explains how viral, bacterial, and allergic conjunctivitis spread and how long contagion can persist. She discusses unilateral vs bilateral onset, discharge types (yellow/green versus watery), typical contagious periods for viral cases, and practica
When Should You Worry About Pediatric Snoring?
My child snores — when is it a problem? Snoring and obstructive sleep apnea are the focus here. Samira Naime, MD, Pediatric Pulmonologist and Sleep Medicine Physician at Children's Mercy, explains how to spot worrying signs, when to try allergy treatment or nasal steroid and when to consider a sleep study. She also covers which labs allow outside ordering and when referral to sleep medicine is app
Recognizing IBD in Kids: What Every Pediatrician Should Know
This episode walks through how to identify inflammatory bowel disease in children, the key red flags that matter, and practical steps primary care providers can take before referral. It’s essential because earlier recognition of pediatric IBD can prevent growth problems, nutritional deficiencies, and serious complications. Guest: Julie Bass, DO, Medical Director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease P
How to Tell a True Food Allergy from an Intolerance
This episode explains the key history elements and symptom timeline that differentiate an IgE-mediated food allergy from an intolerance or sensitivity, so clinicians and parents can make safer, evidence-based decisions. Aarti Pandya, MD, Medical Director of the Food Allergy Center at Children’s Mercy, reviews symptom patterns, timing and red flags for anaphylaxis. Learn about food allergy testing,
Preventing Long-Term Harm: Pediatric Pain Management in Primary Care
This episode explains practical steps primary care clinicians can take to recognize and reduce procedural pain and emotional distress in children, and why early management matters for long-term health and trust in healthcare. Guest Amanda Deacy, PhD, Clinical Director of the Abdominal Pain Program and pediatric psychologist at Children’s Mercy, reviews evidence-based strategies and how they preven
Bringing Behavioral Health Into the Pediatric Clinic
A clear, practical look at integrated behavioral health in pediatric primary care — what it looks like day-to-day, who benefits and how to get started in your practice. Rebekah O'Donnell, LCSW from Children's Mercy, walks listeners through real examples of warm handoffs, care coordination and screening workflows to improve outcomes for children and families.
When to Refer: Pediatric Asthma Red Flags Every Hospitalist Should Know
A concise clinical primer for hospitalists on historical and exam findings that should trigger allergy, immunology, or pulmonology referral — from failure to thrive to recurring ICU admissions. Practical, hospital-ready guidance for timely escalation and improved outcomes.
Learn more about Jade Tam-Williams, MD
Recognizing Early Eating Disorder Signs in Pediatrics
A concise guide for frontline clinicians on early physical and behavioral red flags — changes in growth trajectory, micronutrient concerns, exam‑time anxiety or sudden “healthy” eating shifts. Dr. Sara Gould emphasizes practical 24‑hour recalls, when to order labs/EKG and how to use longitudinal data from well visits to detect problems sooner.
Learn more about Sara Gould, PhD
Pediatric Urology: When to Refer — Practical Red Flags for Pediatricians
In this episode Dr. Gino Vricella, MD (board‑certified pediatric urologist; Associate Professor of Surgery, University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Medicine) walks pediatricians through a concise clinical heuristic for distinguishing benign findings from those that require specialist referral. Learn clear red flags—pain, asymmetry, recurrent UTIs, gross hematuria, progressive hydronephrosis,
Pediatric Burns: Severity, First Aid, and When to Refer
This episode explains burn depth, TBSA estimation, and practical first aid that reduces complications—essential for pediatricians and ER providers who triage children with burns. Pablo Aguayo, MD (Children’s Mercy) walks through burn classification (superficial to fourth-degree), scald burns, and American Burn Association referral criteria. Keywords: pediatric burns, burn severity, burn first aid,
Early Neurologic Red Flags in Pediatrics: What Primary Care Providers Need to Know
Subtle neurologic symptoms can be easy to miss in primary care. Pediatric neurologist Justin Coogle, MD, reviews early red flags, age‑specific warning signs and referral considerations to help pediatricians identify neurologic disorders earlier and optimize care.
Seeing Surgery Differently: The Role of Virtual Reality in Pediatric Care
Virtual reality is changing how pediatric surgeons plan procedures, educate care teams and help children and families better understand what to expect. In this episode, Mark Ryan, MD, pediatric surgeon, discusses how virtual reality is being used in pediatric surgery today, its impact on patient experience and surgical planning and what pediatricians should know as this technology continues to evo
Genetic Predispositions to Cancer: What Pediatricians Need To Know
Pediatric hematology/oncology physician Nikki Wood, DO, explains how pediatricians can recognize genetic cancer risk, refer to genetics appropriately, and support families through long‑term surveillance.
Acute Musculoskeletal Injuries in Kids—Assessment, Imaging & Return-to-Play
How should pediatricians triage an acute sports injury—what to check first, what imaging to order, and when to escalate urgently? In this Pediatrics in Practice CME episode, Kevin Latz, MD, MBA shares a practical framework for assessment, red flags, return-to-play counseling, and prevention strategies for active kids.
Learn more about Kevin Latz, MD
Cardiomyopathy in Children: What Pediatricians Need to Know
Cardiomyopathy in children can present with subtle signs but serious consequences if missed. In this episode, Brian Birnbaum, MD, Interim Co-Director of the Ward Family Heart Center at Children’s Mercy, shares practical insights for pediatricians on recognizing early red flags, knowing when to refer, and understanding how diagnosis and management of pediatric cardiomyopathy are evolving.
Evaluating and Treating Pediatric Scoliosis
In this episode, pediatric orthopedic surgeons Aaron Shaw, DO, and Michael Benvenuti, MD, discuss how pediatricians can confidently assess, evaluate, and refer children with suspected scoliosis. They cover practical screening tips, red flags that warrant further workup, and how treatment decisions are made—from observation and bracing to surgical care—offering clear guidance for partnering with fa
From Screen to Newborn: Making Sense of Prenatal Genetics in Primary Care
This episode dives into the essentials of prenatal genetic testing and its significance for pediatricians. Learn about different types of tests like NIPT and microarrays, and how to interpret results to better care for newborns. Join Dr. Lylach Heisler Cohen, a prenatal genetic testing expert, as she breaks down the complexities of pediatric genetics.
Advancing Hope: Clinical Trials in Pediatric Cancer
Clinical trials are the backbone of progress in pediatric oncology, offering new pathways to treatment and survival for children facing cancer. In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Ginn, MD, a leading expert in pediatric cancer research, to explore why clinical trials matter, how pediatricians can support families through the process, and what innovations are shaping the future of care. From et
Ear Infections in Pediatrics: Prevention, Treatment and When to Refer
Ear infections are one of the most common conditions seen in pediatrics. In this episode, Laura Neff, MD, pediatric otolaryngologist, shares practical guidance on preventing and treating ear infections in children.We discuss antibiotic decision‑making, watchful waiting, prevention strategies, and when recurrent infections or hearing concerns should prompt an ENT referral. Pediatricians will leave
Genomic Medicine in Pediatrics: What Pediatricians Need to Know Now
Genomic medicine is playing an increasingly important role in pediatric care, but it can feel complex for general pediatricians. In this episode of Pediatrics in Practice, Scott Younger, PhD, discusses how genomics is already influencing pediatric diagnosis and care today, common scenarios where genetic insights may be helpful, and why genomic testing can be valuable even when it doesn’t lead to a
Pediatric Thyroid Disorders: What Pediatricians Need to Know About Diagnosis, Referral, and Surgical Care
Pediatric thyroid disorders can present subtly but have significant implications if missed. In this episode, Jake Dahl, MD, PhD, MBA, discusses how pediatric thyroid disease differs from adult presentations, when pediatricians should consider specialty referral, and how endocrinology and surgery work together to guide care. The conversation offers practical insights to help pediatricians recognize
Cleft Feeding: Practical Tips for Pediatricians
Feeding infants with cleft lip and palate can be challenging. In this episode, a pediatric surgeon, occupational therapist, and speech pathologist share practical strategies for pediatricians—from pre- and post-surgery care to therapy techniques and key red flags. Learn how to guide families and collaborate effectively for the best outcomes.
Note: This episode is not awarded CME.
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome: Key Insights for Pediatricians
Join Pezad Doctor, MD for a focused discussion on hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). Learn what pediatricians need to know about early detection, surgical stages, interstage monitoring, and supporting families through this complex journey. Practical tips and emerging updates will help you feel confident in managing HLHS in your practice.
RSV in Pediatrics: Immunization Strategies and Treatment Insights
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) remains a leading cause of hospitalization in infants and young children. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Maria Deza Leon to explore the latest in RSV prevention and treatment. From maternal immunization and monoclonal antibodies like Nirsevimab to practical guidance on managing severe cases, we’ll cover what pediatricians need to know this season. Tune in f
Shedding Light on Seasonal Depression: Practical Strategies for Pediatric Care
As daylight fades and winter approaches, pediatricians often see an uptick in mood-related concerns among children and adolescents. In this episode, we explore how to recognize the signs of seasonal depression, differentiate it from other mood disorders, and apply evidence-based interventions. Our expert guest shares practical screening tools, treatment options—including light therapy and behavior
Reimagining Pediatric Care: The Future of Telehealth
Telehealth has transformed the way families access pediatric care, offering convenience without compromising quality. In this episode, we sit down with Morgan Waller, Director of Telemedicine at Children’s Mercy, to explore the latest advancements in pediatric telehealth. From innovative technologies to strategies for improving access in rural communities, we discuss how virtual care is shaping th
Toxic Truths: Pediatric Poisonings and the Antidotes That Save Lives
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Michelle DePhillips, a pediatric emergency medicine physician, to explore the critical topic of pediatric poisonings. From household items to medications, children are exposed to a wide range of toxic substances—and quick, informed action can make all the difference. Dr. DePhillips shares real-world cases, essential antidotes every pediatrician should know, and
Heart to Heart: Pediatric Cardiologists on Caring for Children with Congenital Heart Defects
In this episode, we sit down with leading pediatric cardiologists to explore the complexities and compassion behind caring for children with congenital heart defects (CHDs). From early diagnosis and surgical planning to long-term management and family support, our guests share their insights on what it takes to guide patients and families through every stage of the journey. They also discuss the l
From NICU to Neighborhood: Supporting Premature Patients Beyond the Hospital
In this episode, we chat with neonatologist Harriet Romald, MD, FAAP, to explore the critical role pediatricians play in the long-term care of premature infants. From NICU discharge to developmental milestones, we discuss how pediatricians and neonatologists collaborate to ensure continuity of care, monitor common health challenges and navigate social determinants that impact outcomes. Whether you
Vaping and Substance Abuse Warning Signs
In this episode, Dr. Bob Underwood hosts Dr. Thuylinh Pham, an urgent care pediatrician, and Addisyn Davis, a youth advocate, to explore the complexities of vaping among teens. Understand the significant health risks associated with vaping, the misconceptions that persist, and how to identify warning signs of substance abuse. Tune in to equip yourself with essential knowledge to support the youth
Managing PCOS in Adolescents
In this episode, Dr. Tania Burgert, a leading pediatric endocrinologist and director of the Multi-Specialty Adolescent PCOS Program at Children’s Mercy, breaks down the complexities of diagnosing and managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in teens. She discusses the evolving diagnostic criteria, the challenges pediatricians face in early identification, and how to approach patients who may be “
Understanding Short Stature in Pediatrics: Key Insight
In this episode of Pediatrics in Practice, Dr. Mike and Dr. Pratibha Rana from Children's Mercy unravel the complexities of caring for patients with short stature. They discuss common causes, evaluation techniques, and treatment approaches. Ideal for pediatricians, this episode highlights clinical decision-making tools for better patient outcomes.
Learn more about Pratibha Rana, MD
Headache Common Cases
In this episode, we explore the most common types of headaches in children, how they present across age groups and what red flags to watch for. Our guest shares tips for diagnosing pediatric migraines, the impact of lifestyle factors and practical strategies for both acute and preventive management. Plus, hear a compelling case that highlights the complexity of pediatric headache care—and advice f
Screentime and Effects on Pediatric Mental Health
Dive into the world of pediatric mental health as Dr. Libby Milkovich discusses the concerning trends related to screen time usage in children. Discover the neurological and behavioral mechanisms at play, and learn how screen habits established in early childhood can impact emotional well-being as kids grow.
Learn more about Libby Milkovich, MD
Pediatric Sickle Cell Disease Overview and Treatment
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Shabnam Arsiwala, a leading pediatric specialist in sickle cell disease, to explore the essentials of caring for children living with this complex condition. Dr. Arsiwala shares insights on early diagnosis, routine management and the role of hydroxyurea in treatment. We also discuss common complications, psychosocial support for families, and exciting innovati
Concussions 101
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Greg Canty, Medical Director of the Sports Medicine Center at Children’s Mercy in Kansas City, to explore the latest in pediatric concussion care. From updated return-to-play protocols to the evolving science of rest and recovery, Dr. Canty shares practical insights every pediatrician can use. We’ll also discuss risk factors for prolonged recovery, the role of
Lip Tie Management and Treatment
In this episode, we’re joined by Jairrah Godsil, Occupational Therapist at Children’s Mercy, to explore the often misunderstood topic of lip ties in infants. Jairrah shares how lip ties can impact feeding, oral motor development, and long-term function—and what pediatricians should look for during early assessments. We’ll also discuss the importance of a multidisciplinary approach, the role of occ
Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Diagnosis and Screening
Winston Manimtim, MD, discusses bronchopulmonary dysplasia including affects and complications, provides guidance to pediatricians working with patients with BDP and more in this episode.
Learn more about Winston Manimtim, MD, FAAP
School Safety and Health Policies
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erin McCann, MD, MPH, attending physician at the Children’s Mercy Primary Care Clinic, to explore the evolving landscape of school safety and health policies. From mental health support and chronic illness management to emergency preparedness and public health mandates, Dr. McCann shares practical insights on how pediatricians can partner with schools and fami
Measles Assessment and Treatment
Eddie Lyon, MD, discusses concerns related to an uptick in measles cases, and how community providers can assess, limit exposure and guide patients to remain healthy.
