Journal of paediatrics and child health
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J Paediatr Child Health · Oct 1998
Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical TrialRelative bioavailability and plasma paracetamol profiles of Panadol suppositories in children.
To determine the relative bioavailability and plasma paracetamol concentration profiles following administration of a proprietary formulation of paracetamol suppositories to postoperative children. ⋯ Absorption of paracetamol following rectal administration of Panadol suppositories to postoperative children is slower and reduced as compared to oral therapy. The hard wax and liquid filled products have similar absorption characteristics. The usually quoted antipyretic therapeutic range for paracetamol is 10-20 mg/L, although 5 mg/L may be effective. A single rectal dose of 25 mg/kg will obtain this lower concentration within 1 h of administration and maintain it for up to 6 h. When given in an appropriate dose for analgesia, maximum plasma paracetamol concentrations would be available in the immediate postoperative period if the rectal dose was given 2 h before the planned end of the procedure.
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J Paediatr Child Health · Oct 1998
ReviewIntra-abdominal manifestations of Henoch-Schönlein purpura.
Gastrointestinal involvement occurs in approximately two thirds of children with Henoch-Schönlein Purpura (HSP) and usually is manifested by abdominal pain. Abdominal symptoms precede the typical purpuric rash of HSP in 14-36%; the symptoms may mimic an acute surgical abdomen and result in unnecessary laparotomy. Major complications of abdominal involvement develop in 4.6% (range 1.3-13.6%), of which intussusception is by far the most common. ⋯ Ultrasonography complements serial clinical assessment, clarifies the nature of the gastrointestinal involvement and reduces the likelihood of unnecessary surgery. Bowel ischaemia and infarction, intestinal perforation, fistula formation, late ileal stricture, acute appendicitis, massive upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage, pancreatitis, hydrops of the gallbladder and pseudomembranous colitis are seen infrequently. Earlier diagnosis and prompt treatment of intra-abdominal complications has reduced the mortality from 40% to almost zero.
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To determine whether cardiac monitoring is required in children sustaining electric shock at Australian household voltage. ⋯ Routine cardiac monitoring is not required after exposure to Australian household electricity supply if the child is asymptomatic and has a normal ECG on presentation.
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The need for a skilled neonatal resuscitator in the form of a paediatrician or paediatric registrar to attend a vaginal delivery or Caesarean section (CS) is not clearly defined. This study was undertaken in order to ascertain the level of resuscitation a neonate might require dependent on the delivery mode and type of anaesthesia used. ⋯ It is concluded that a paediatrician or paediatric registrar is not required to routinely attend repeat CS under epidural anaesthesia, but should be present for repeat CS under general anaesthesia.