Predicts traumatic brain injury on CT in children with blunt head trauma.
The Palchak (UC Davis) Rule is a Neurology & trauma scoring tool used in paediatric practice. Predicts traumatic brain injury on CT in children with blunt head trauma. It scores 5 criteria and interprets the total across 2 bands, so the number always arrives with the severity it implies rather than on its own. In PediAid each criterion is shown as a labelled option with the weight it carries, so the total can be checked rather than taken on trust.
5. They are Abnormal mental status; Clinical signs of skull fracture; History of vomiting; Scalp haematoma (in children ≤ 2 years); Headache.
The total is interpreted as: any score - Very low risk: none of the five predictors - negative predictive value ≈100% for traumatic brain injury on CT. Imaging can reasonably be withheld; 1 predictor or more - Not low risk: one or more predictors present - the rule does not exclude TBI; consider CT or observation per clinical judgement and local guidance.
No. It is a structured way to record and communicate severity. A clinician concerned about a child should act on that concern regardless of the total.
Source: Palchak MJ et al. A decision rule for identifying children at low risk for brain injuries after blunt head trauma. Ann Emerg Med 2003;42:492-506.
Yes. Score definitions are bundled with the PediAid app, so the score computes without a connection.