Dr. Stephen Sandelich's scholarly endeavors primarily center on the critical domains of pediatric and adolescent substance misuse and concomitant mental health challenges, particularly as these manifest in the exigent setting of the emergency department. One principal aim is to elucidate the distinctive risk and protective factors that bear upon the initiation and trajectory of substance use disorders and mental health crises among adolescents. By gaining an understanding of these determinants, the goal is to pave the way for efficacious preventive strategies and timely interventions.

Furthermore, in recognizing the pivotal role that the emergency department plays in acute care, Dr. Sandelich is dedicated to the design, execution, and meticulous assessment of bespoke interventions in this environment tailored specifically for adolescents grappling with substance misuse and mental health exigencies.

Lastly, a cornerstone of Dr. Sandelich's research paradigm is the synthesis and translation of these empirical findings into tangible applications: influencing clinical practice, molding policy directives, and enriching the educational curriculum within the realm of pediatric emergency medicine. This holistic approach ensures that evidence-based insights are not only generated but are also seamlessly integrated into the broader healthcare continuum, optimizing outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Dr. Stephen Sandelich places a significant emphasis on imparting knowledge and skills to the next generation of medical professionals. This commitment materializes in an enthusiastic involvement in teaching both residents and medical students, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the multifaceted challenges they will inevitably encounter in their future practices.

Dr. Sandelich actively mentors medical students embarking on their medical student research projects. This mentorship is not merely about guiding research methodologies but also inculcating a spirit of inquiry, promoting a holistic understanding of the subject matter, and aiding students in drawing meaningful connections between empirical findings and clinical practice.

Recognizing the invaluable role of real-time clinical experiences, Dr. Stephen Sandelich emphasizes bedside teaching in the emergency department. Here, residents and medical students gain technical proficiency and a nuanced appreciation of the challenges inherent to pediatric emergencies, particularly those intertwined with substance use and mental health issues.

Complementing this hands-on teaching approach is Dr. Sandelich's expertise in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). As an evolving and indispensable tool in emergency medicine, POCUS offers a non-invasive means to rapidly diagnose and manage various clinical scenarios. Dr. Sandelich is at the forefront of integrating POCUS into clinical practice and is deeply involved in training residents and students in its application. By doing so, they are equipped with an essential skill that augments their diagnostic prowess, ensuring optimal patient care.