Comparative Effectiveness of Emergency Ultrasound Guided Management of Pediatric Soft Tissue Infections

Comparative Effectiveness of Emergency Ultrasound Guided Management of Pediatric Soft Tissue Infections

To examine the effect of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) management guidance on pediatric skin and soft tissue infections treatment failure rate, as well as emergency department process outcome.

Inclusion Criteria:

• history and examination findings consistent with possible abscess or cellulitis per the treating clinician.
• minimal lesion diameter for inclusion is 1cm.

Exclusion Criteria:

• suspected soft tissue infections involving or near mucosal membranes (e.g. perirectal, peritonsillar, vulvovaginal areas)
• facial lesions
• paronychia or felon
• parent or patient refusal of consent
• unsuitable subjects deemed by treating clinicians.