Acta paediatrica
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The results of a clinical trial may be subject to random error because of the variability in the measured data, which arises purely by chance. There are two types of random error - type I error and type II error. In this study, type I and type II errors are explained, and the important concepts of statistical power and sample size estimation are discussed. ⋯ The most important way of minimising random errors is to ensure adequate sample size; that is, a sufficient large number of patients should be recruited for the study.
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We tested whether operators using manometers attached to self-inflating bags could accurately deliver set targeted peak inspiratory pressures (PIPs) compared to the Neopuff(™) T-piece resuscitator (TPR). ⋯ Accurately targeted PIPs can be achieved when a manometer specifically designed for use on a self-inflating bag is used during manual ventilation. This may be useful in settings where access to a Neopuff(™) TPR or a gas flow source is limited.
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Observational Study
Nationwide study of headache pain in Italy shows that pain assessment is still inadequate in paediatric emergency care.
Italian national guidelines on pain management were published in 2010, but there is little information on how effective pain management is in paediatric emergency care, with other countries reporting poor levels. Using headache as an indicator, we described pain assessment in Italian emergency departments and identified predictors of algometric scale use. ⋯ Despite national guidelines, paediatric pain assessment in Italian emergency care was suboptimal. Hospital variables appeared to be stronger predictors of adequate assessment than patient characteristics.