Pediatric Infectious Disease

Catalog description

The objective of this elective is to familiarize the student with the clinical and microbiologic approach to common pediatric infectious disease problems. The student will become familiar with the different classes of antimicrobial agents and learn when and how to select appropriate empirical antibiotic therapy. The student will participate in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients presenting with sign and symptoms of an infectious disorder. The student will learn the appropriate laboratory tests and culture techniques for isolation and identification of bacterial, viral fungal, and parasitic pathogens. Epdidemiology and infection control of specific infectious pathogens will be discussed. This elective is primarily an inpatient consultation rotation involving the teaching hospital and two private hospital services with one weekly outpatient clinic for follow-up and consultation. Opportunities for research projects may be available if desired. Limit 1 student with approval from Dr. Handle. (2 or 4 weeks)