PedsCases: A Learning Module for the Approach to Pediatric Anemia

Abstract Introduction PedsCases is a comprehensive web-based educational tool that focuses on the core objectives of pediatric undergraduate medical education. PedsCases was created by and for medical students to meet their educational needs by providing opportunities for active self-directed learning in pediatrics. A variety of learning modalities are available and include podcasts, case-based questions, multistep clinical cases, and summaries of relevant guidelines. The overarching objective of this learning module is to enable students to develop an approach to childhood anemia. Methods This learning module includes multiple learning modalities. First, two podcasts have been developed, articulating an approach to anemia in children. The first podcast explores the differential diagnosis of anemia based on pathophysiologic process and then reviews relevant features on history and physical examination. The second podcast develops a focused approach to investigations, the interpretation of the complete blood count, and an introduction to management. A basic understanding of infant nutrition is critical to understanding the pathophysiology of iron-deficiency anemia. To address this gap, learners can review the attached summaries of the Canadian Paediatric Society and Health Canada joint statements on nutrition for healthy term infants. Results The anemia podcasts have collectively had over 7,000 downloads since their release in July 2015. At this time, we do not have any specific data on outcomes; however, we have received positive feedback from listeners. Since 2008, PedsCases has had over 55,000 visitors from 150 countries with over 375,000 podcast downloads. PedsCases has published 15 previous learning modules in MedEdPORTAL. Discussion The content found on PedsCases.com is aligned with the Canadian National Undergraduate Curriculum in Pediatrics, which has been developed by the Pediatric Undergraduate Program Directors of Canada; thus, it is a key educational tool for pediatric educators and clerkship directors to use to complement the national curriculum and help learners to achieve the outlined competencies