Selected pediatric emergencies in community practice.

In children, the signs and symptoms of serious infection often mimic those observed with minor, self-limiting diseases. One of the most important steps in making a diagnosis of an infection of the central nervous system is to suspect that an infection may be present. Acute epiglotitis predominantly affects children 2 to 7 years of age; delays in its diagnosis or treatment may result in death within a matter of hours. Pharmacists should be aware of the signs and symptoms of child abuse and neglect and understand the reporting procedures and requirements.