DIMAPUR, JULY 30 (MExN): In a bid to enhance paediatric healthcare and improve awareness among medical professionals, Gurgaon-based Medanta Hospital, in collaboration with the Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) Guwahati City Branch and the IAP Intensive Care Chapter, Assam, organised a Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme on paediatric critical care with a special focus on respiratory illnesses.
The CME, held recently, was led by Dr Praveen Khilnani, Chairman, Paediatric Pulmonology and Critical Care, and Dr Rajiv Uttam, Director and Head of Department, Paediatric Pulmonology and Critical Care, both from Medanta, Gurugram. The sessions aimed to address the rising concerns around paediatric viral infections and share best practices in the management of paediatric emergencies.
Dr Khilnani, speaking on the topic “Common Paediatric Emergencies: Approach to Management,” highlighted the importance of the ABCDE assessment protocol—Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, and Exposure—in evaluating and managing emergencies in children. He also emphasised the need to carefully consider the patient’s history as shared by parents or caregivers for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Dr Rajiv Uttam moderated a panel discussion on “Recent Surge of Viral and Atypical Pneumonia in India,” where he addressed infections caused by pathogens such as mycoplasma pneumoniae, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenoviruses. He noted that children under five are especially vulnerable due to underdeveloped immune systems.
“Vaccination and proper nutrition are key to preventing complications and supporting healthy development in children,” Dr Uttam said, adding that respiratory infections tend to spike during the rainy season. He also warned that sudden changes in temperature can constrict airways in children, aggravating breathing issues and increasing susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections.
Assam-based paediatricians Dr Devajit Sarma, Dr Nayanmoni Deka, and Dr Diganta Barman also participated in the panel discussion. Medanta’s multi-specialty OPD services are now available in Guwahati at Sunvalley Hospital, GS Road, Mathura Nagar, Bormotoria. For more information, the public can contact 7638826770.
