Validation of a Modified Jefferson Scale of Empathy for Observers to Assess Trainees.

Objective: "Demonstrate insight and understanding into emotion" is a competency amenable to simulation-based assessment. The Jefferson Scale of Patient Perceptions of Physician Empathy (JSPPPE) has validity evidence for patients to assess provider empathy. A version adapted for a third-party observers does not exist.

Development of a screening tool for pediatric sexual assault may reduce emergency-department visits.

Objective: To define the characteristics of a novel screening tool used to identify which prepubertal children should potentially receive an initial evaluation for alleged sexual assault in a nonemergent setting.

Methods: Electronic medical records were retrospectively reviewed from 2007 to 2008. Visits with a chief complaint or diagnosis of alleged sexual assault for patients aged 12 years or younger were identified.

Culture-negative osteomyelitis.

Objective: To examine the natural history, clinical manifestations, laboratory changes and outcomes of children with culture-negative osteomyelitis and to compare findings with cases of culture-positive infection treated during the same time period.

Design: Retrospective review of consecutive admissions for osteomyelitis during the 4-year period 1998 through 2001, with a minimum follow-up of 1 year.

Setting: A single urban children's hospital with a large orthopedic referral service.