The development of an education program in the pediatric emergency department

The pediatric emergency department is a major educational resource in ambulatory pediatrics. A literature review indicates a lack of programs based on the identification of specific educational objectives in this setting. A model educational program for third-year pediatric clinical clerks and pediatric level I and II house officers is presented. Learning is defined in three areas: patient management, behavioral care needs, and hospital and community health care needs. Information on specific educational goals and objectives, learning experiences derived from them, and methods for evaluation of learning is provided.