Indian pediatrics
-
Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) was introduced in 1975 as a standardized tool for objectively assessing clinical competencies - including history-taking, physical examination, communication skills, data interpretation etc. It consists of a circuit of stations connected in series, with each station devoted to assessment of a particular competency using pre-determined guidelines or checklists. OSCE has been used as a tool for both formative and summative evaluation of medical graduate and postgraduate students across the globe. ⋯ This article focuses on the issues of validity, objectivity, reliability, and standard setting of OSCE. Presently, the Indian experiences with OSCE are limited and there is a need to sensitise the Indian faculty and students. A cautious approach is desired before it is considered as a supplementary tool to other methods of assessment for the summative examinations in Indian settings.
-
to estimate the incidence of reactive thrombocytosis among febrile young infants and to asses the utility of platelet count as a potential predictor of serious bacterial infection (SBI). ⋯ reactive thrombocytosis was a frequent finding in young infants with SBI. Thrombocytosis >450,000 cells/mm3, in combination with leucocytosis, elevated CRP and pyuria, may help in early recognition of febrile young infants at risk for SBI.