The Australian & New Zealand journal of obstetrics & gynaecology
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Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol · Nov 2001
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialA randomised controlled trial comparing a dilating vaginal speculum with a conventional bivalve speculum.
Cervical smears are traditionally taken with the aid of a metal or disposable plastic bivalve speculum. Many women complain of discomfort with these specula. This study compares the efficacy and women's experiences of a new 'dilating speculum' called the Veda-scope, with a conventional metal bivalve speculum (Pederson). ⋯ Cytologists were blinded as to which speculum was used for cervical sampling. Of women examined, 7-83% of women found Veda-scope examinations comfortable, compared to 38-62% of women who found examinations with the bivalve comfortable; 94% of the women preferred the 'comfort' of the Veda-scope. The Veda-scope was as good as the bivalve speculum in providing samples for cytological analysis following the initial learning curve, and also provided markedly superior magnified views of the cervix and vaginal fornices.
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Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol · Nov 2001
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical TrialActive management of the third stage at caesarean section: a randomised controlled trial of misoprostol versus syntocinon.
The objective of this trial was to investigate whether 500 microg oral misoprostol given immediately after delivery of the neonate at Caesarean section is as effective as a bolus intravenous injection of 10 iu Syntocinon in stimulating uterine contractions and thereby reducing blood loss. Forty women undergoing elective or emergency Caesarean section were included in a placebo-controlled randomised trial. Group 1 received oral misoprostol and a placebo intravenous bolus and Group 2 received intravenous Syntocinon and oral placebo tablets. ⋯ We concluded that oral misoprostol could be used as an alternative oxytocic agent for the third stage at Caesarean section. However, there is an obvious need for a larger randomised controlled trial to be undertaken. Previous published studies have concentrated on vaginal births and further studies should be extended to Caesarean deliveries.
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Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol · Nov 2001
A portable, disposable device for patient-controlled epidural analgesia following Caesarean section: evaluation by patients and nurses.
Twenty patients undergoing elective Caesarean section were provided with a pethidine-primed disposable Go Medical epidural infuser for postoperative pain control. Patients and nurses evaluated the device by completing a questionnaire. ⋯ The patients expressed a high level of satisfaction with the device and all would use it again if offered the chance. We conclude that the Go Medical epidural infuser is a safe and effective device as used in the postnatal ward setting.