The Journal of family practice
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Intrathecal analgesia is a highly effective technique for pain relief in the first stage of labor. It is a technically simple procedure that can be easily learned by family physicians currently performing diagnostic lumbar puncture. Its effectiveness, simplicity, and low incidence of serious complications make it especially applicable to the practices of physicians delivering babies in areas where continuous epidural anesthesia is not available. This article describes the procedure of intrathecal analgesia, and discusses advantages, complications, side effects, and applications.
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The method of collection of the urine sample is of paramount importance in making a diagnosis of urinary tract infection in infants and children. Squeezing urine out of disposable diapers can provide a urine sample that can be used to detect chemical abnormalities as well as a specimen suitable for microscopic examination. To date there have been no reported studies on the use of this technique for urine culture as compared with samples collected by suprapubic aspiration and catheterization. ⋯ Urine obtained from a disposable diaper can provide a valid sample for diagnosing urinary tract infection. The technique is simple, and can be carried out readily in ambulatory settings with minimal equipment and expense.