Differential Diagnosis Flashcards
What is a Differential Diagnosis?
A systematic method used to identify the presence of an entity where multiple alternatives are possible.
What are the steps to develop a differential diagnosis?
Collect data from all sources
Includes maternal history, pregnancy complications, labor and delivery history, infant history, and physical exam of the infant.
What maternal history should be checked during the diagnostic process?
Age, parity, EDC
What labor and delivery history factors are important to review?
SVD vs C section, fluid color, volume/ROM, duration, assisted delivery, S/S of chorioamnionitis
What infant history aspects are crucial to consider?
Apgar scores, resuscitation status, improvement or worsening of the infant
What physical exam findings should be assessed in the infant?
Degree of work of breathing, O2 requirement on current support
What is an important takeaway regarding diagnosis?
Sometimes a diagnosis is made by exclusion of other diagnoses over time.
What does ‘common things occur commonly’ imply in differential diagnosis?
The most frequent diagnoses should be considered first.
What does ‘zebras do happen’ mean in the context of diagnosis?
Rare conditions can occur, so they should not be completely ruled out.
What is the importance of collaboration in the diagnostic process?
Collaboration with your team can improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
What is the relationship between experience and good judgment in diagnosis?
Good judgment comes from experience, and experience often comes from poor judgment.
What should be kept in mind regarding patience during diagnosis?
Be patient with yourself; blink therapy in experienced clinicians.
What constitutes a plan in the diagnostic process?
Specific tests or labs; no change is a plan. When in doubt, may do nothing.
Fill in the blank: An infant will declare themselves when there is no _______.
change in the plan
What is the assessment for a 39-week infant with significant jaundice at 12 hours of age?
Consider whether significant jaundice should occur at this age and what diagnoses should be on the differential.
What should be assessed for a 48-hour term infant who is 12% below birth weight?
The weight loss and potential differential diagnoses.
