ABEM ABEM Pediatric & Obstetric Emergencies

Question 1

A 2-year-old presents with inspiratory stridor and a barking cough. Which intervention is first-line for moderate croup?

Accepted Answer

Dexamethasone 0.6 mg/kg IM/PO

Answer

Dexamethasone (0.6 mg/kg) is the first-line treatment for moderate croup, reducing airway edema and decreasing return visits.

Question 2

An 8-month-old presents with high fever, bulging anterior fontanelle, and irritability. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

IV antibiotics then lumbar puncture

Answer

IV antibiotics should be administered promptly in suspected bacterial meningitis before LP if signs of elevated ICP are present.

Question 3

A 4-year-old swallowed a button battery 3 hours ago. X-ray shows it in the esophagus. What is the correct management?

Accepted Answer

Immediate endoscopic removal

Answer

Esophageal button batteries require immediate endoscopic removal due to rapid tissue necrosis from electrical current and alkaline injury.

Question 4

A 6-week-old male presents with projectile non-bilious vomiting after feeding. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Pyloric stenosis

Answer

Pyloric stenosis classically presents in 2–8 week old males with projectile, non-bilious vomiting and a palpable olive-shaped mass.

Question 5

A 10-year-old presents with acute onset severe scrotal pain for 2 hours. What is the priority management?

Accepted Answer

Immediate surgical exploration

Answer

Testicular torsion requires immediate surgical exploration; time to detorsion directly determines testicular salvage rates.

(ABEM) American Board of Emergency Medicine Practice Test