Paediatric infections mnemonic

Complications of measles

The mnemonic

POEM

What each word stands for

  • PPneumonia
  • OOtitis media
  • EEncephalitis
  • MMalnutrition, and SSPE as a late complication

Why it matters clinically

Highlights why measles is a leading cause of childhood morbidity.

Where it stops being reliable

Not exhaustive; lists common complications only.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Paediatric infections mnemonic?

POEM. It helps you recall: Complications of measles.

What does "P" stand for?

Pneumonia

What does "O" stand for?

Otitis media

What does "E" stand for?

Encephalitis

What are all the parts of the POEM mnemonic?

P: Pneumonia; O: Otitis media; E: Encephalitis; M: Malnutrition, and SSPE as a late complication.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Paediatric infections in Pediatrics.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Not exhaustive; lists common complications only.

How is this useful clinically?

Highlights why measles is a leading cause of childhood morbidity.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pediatrics question about Paediatric infections.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.