Jian Tong, MD

The reason that I am passionate about pediatric emergency medicine is simple. I love kids. Children are fun, energetic, and happy. When they present to pediatric emergency department with fever or injury, some combination of antipyretic, a popsicle, analgesic and a sticker can relieve their symptoms and they become happy and cheerful again. However as a pediatric ED physician, I know my responsibility is not only to provide the best care for sick or injured children, but also is to educate their caregivers and relief their stress.

I can still remember a specific case even after many years. It was right after midnight when I picked up a chart with a chief complaint of fever. As I walked into the room, I noticed a young mother holding her son to her chest, terrified and upset. After listening to her story, I soon realized that her son had suffered a febrile seizure. As we discussed what this meant, I could see the mother gradually relax. Feelings of relief appeared on her face after I reassured her that a simple febrile seizure would not damage her son's brain. She left at peace and thanked me for things that required no medical skill at all: just simply listening and being available to talk.

Thinking back on my past experiences in the pediatric emergency department, I am always surprised by how much medical knowledge goes into completing even a single shift. There are so many potential diseases to consider, and the presentation of the disease can vary from age to age or even from child to child. I am not only excited by the diagnostic challenges of pediatric emergency medicine but I also enjoy the non-medical aspects of working with children and their caregivers. Furthermore, the pediatric emergency department is also a perfect place for family education. I frequently discuss important topics like safety and prevention (bike helmets, proper car seat and seat belt, avoiding drug use, etc.). One of the best parts about working in the pediatric emergency department is that it has allowed me to be an advocate for the health and well-being of children. I am proud of and enjoy what I have been doing ever since I started practicing pediatric emergency medicine over twenty years ago.