Novel risk factors for central-line associated bloodstream infections in critically ill children.

Objective: Central-line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) cause morbidity and mortality in critically ill children. We examined novel and/or modifiable risk factors for CLABSI to identify new potential targets for infection prevention strategies.

Methods: This single-center retrospective matched case-control study of pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) patients was conducted in a 60-bed PICU from April 1, 2013, to December 31, 2017.

When and how do GPs record vital signs in children with acute infections? A cross-sectional study.

Background: NICE recommendations and evidence from ambulatory settings promotes the use of vital signs in identifying serious infections in children. This appears to differ from usual clinical practice where GPs report measuring vital signs infrequently.

Aim: To identify frequency of vital sign documentation by GPs, in the assessment of children with acute infections in primary care.

Diagnostic value of laboratory tests in identifying serious infections in febrile children: systematic review.

Objective: To collate all available evidence on the diagnostic value of laboratory tests for the diagnosis of serious infections in febrile children in ambulatory settings.

Design: Systematic review.

Data Sources: Electronic databases, reference tracking, and consultation with experts.

Which early 'red flag' symptoms identify children with meningococcal disease in primary care?

Background: Symptoms are part of the initial evaluation of children with acute illness, and are often used to help identify those who may have serious infections. Meningococcal disease is a rapidly progressive infection that needs to be recognised early among children presenting to primary care.

Aim: To determine the diagnostic value of presenting symptoms in primary care for meningococcal disease.

Diagnostic value of clinical features at presentation to identify serious infection in children in developed countries: a systematic review.

Background: Our aim was to identify which clinical features have value in confirming or excluding the possibility of serious infection in children presenting to ambulatory care settings in developed countries.

Methods: In this systematic review, we searched electronic databases (Medline, Embase, DARE, CINAHL), reference lists of relevant studies, and contacted experts to identify articles assessing clinical features of serious infection in children. 1939 potentially relevant studies were identified.