Pediatrics

Knowledge of the characteristic features and developmental changes of the major physiological systems during infancy, childhood, adolescence (0-18 years).
Knowledge of the main childhood diseases. Of particular importance is the ability to recognise the conditions which require urgent attention and the diseases which require the expertise of a specialist. In the context of chronic diseases, which will affect patients throughout their entire lives, the importance of the associated social aspects is highlighted.
When relevant, the problem of prevention is dealt with.
Indications about taking a medical history (which requires particular methods of communication, given that the patients are children), performing a physical examination (in children of different ages) are provided, as well as indications for differential diagnosis, therapeutic and, where required, rehabilitation interventions.

On completion of the course the student should:
· be able to take a medical history by communicating both with the parent and, possibly, with the child, considering the different age-appropriate methods (0-18 years) and the socio-cultural status of the family;
· be able to perform a physical examination taking into account the age of the patient as well as their clinical condition;
· know and understand the characteristic features and developmental changes of the major organ and physiological systems during infancy, childhood, adolescence (namely those which undergo significant changes, eg. the kidney, the hematopoietic system, the immune system etc.);
· know and understand the physiological characteristics of somatic growth;
· know and understand the main pediatric diseases of the different age groups, their differential diagnoses and therapeutic interventions, and recognise the conditions which require the expertise of a specialist;
· know and understand, in particular, the chronic diseases that will affect patients their entire lives; knowledge of the treatments, including possible rehabilitation therapies, and their social implications, is required;
· know and understand the main emergency pathological situations, their alarm symptoms, the first-line emergency treatment to perform; recognise when it is necessary to send the patient to a hospital casualty department;
· know and understand the preventive measures for childhood illnesses, with particular regard for those of great social impact;
· be able to communicate with patients and their families with respect and empathy.