This multicenter prospective observational cohort study evaluates how well the initial triage category assigned by the Turkish Ministry of Health three-level color-coded triage system (Red-Yellow-Green) predicts serious clinical outcomes in children aged 0-18 years who present with fever to pediatric emergency departments. The study additionally assesses whether physiological parameters recorded at triage (heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, capillary refill time, AVPU level of consciousness, and general appearance) provide independent and incremental prognostic value beyond the assigned triage category. Ten centers across Turkey will enroll consecutive eligible febrile children over a 3-month period. Routine clinical care and triage decisions are not altered by the study. The primary outcome is a composite serious clinical outcome. The study is reported in accordance with the STROBE and TRIPOD statements.
Who can participate
Age range
0 Years – 18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age 0-18 years
* Presentation to the pediatric emergency department
* Fever \>=38.0 C at triage OR history of fever within the preceding 24 hours
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presentation due to trauma
* Elective visits
* Missing triage data
* Re-attendance within 72 hours for the same episode (only the first visit is included)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.