Kari R. Posner, MD

From a young age, I always knew I wanted to take care of children, and unlike other children my age, I loved going to see my pediatrician.  She became a mentor to me later in life and was there to meet my own children when they were born.  There is nothing quite like the innocence of a child, or the cute little giggle when touching their belly, or describing what could possibly be found in their ear when looking with an otoscope.  I was drawn to the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of medicine, but it wasn’t until medical school that I discovered my true passion for pediatric emergency medicine. What captivated me the most about the field was its unique blend of high-stakes decision-making, critical care, and the deep connections I could form with children and their families during some of their most vulnerable moments.  I never take for granted the fact that I can make an immediate impact in a child’s life, whether it’s stabilizing a critically ill patient or figuring out a diagnosis that no one else has been able to crack.  There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a child improve right before your eyes and feeling the gratitude from parents who might be experiencing one of their darkest times.

I have a particular interest in critical care and the excitement of diagnosing rare, complex conditions often referred to as "zebra" diagnoses.  I thrive on challenging cases that require thinking outside the box and collaborating with specialists to ensure children receive the best care possible.  I am fast on my feet and even keeled even in the most stressful situations. In the emergency department, no two days are alike, and I am always ready to face whatever comes through the doors with focus and compassion.

Beyond the clinical challenges, what keeps me passionate about my work is the relationships I build with children and their families.  Children are incredibly resilient, and their honesty and spirit are such a privilege to witness. I believe it's essential to not only care for the patient but to support their family every step of the way. Being able to provide reassurance, comfort, and clear communication to parents during an emergency is one of the most important aspects of my role.  My two children are my entire world.  I feel that because of this, I can relate to parents in a special way, and I am proud that I treat each child in the emergency department as I would treat my own.

Outside of the hospital, I have a passion for singing and musical theater, which I often bring into my work. Whether it’s singing a lullaby to soothe a scared child, singing the latest Disney tune while a patient is undergoing a sedation, or using my voice to lighten the mood in the emergency department, I find that music can create moments of calm in an otherwise hectic environment. Singing allows me to connect with my patients in a way that goes beyond medicine.  Balancing my career in pediatric emergency medicine with my love for singing has taught me the importance of maintaining joy and creativity in everything I do, both in and out of the hospital.  I have worked at NYU since 2011, and my time spent caring for countless children over the years in the emergency department have given me fulfillment beyond what words can express.