PedsCases - A Learning Module for the Evaluation of a Child With Failure to Thrive for Medical Students

Abstract

Abstract This resource is a podcast-based learning module that allows medical students to develop an approach to the evaluation of a child with failure to thrive. The case features a 2-month-old boy who presents with a failure to thrive. The case then helps the students develop an approach to history and physical examination of the child while ensuring that students understand the definition and potential causes of failure to thrive. Useful investigations are discussed; a shotgun approach is discouraged. This resource is a part of PedsCases, a comprehensive web-based educational tool that focuses on the core objectives of undergraduate pediatric education with extensive student involvement. It was created for and by medical students and provides an opportunity for active self-directed learning in pediatrics. The learning modalities include questions, flash card–type quizzes, multistep clinical cases, and podcasts. PedsCases has been integrated into the third-year undergraduate pediatric medical education curriculum at the University of Alberta. It is one of the main sources recommended to students to assist in covering the core objectives of the clinical pediatric rotation and in preparing for the final examinations. Since the focus of medical education has shifted towards independent learning, PedsCases has become a complementary educational tool and has filled a niche.

Keywords

• Failure to Thrive
• PedsCases
• Poor Weight Gain
• Growth Disorders