Archives of disease in childhood
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Eight bereavement support posts in paediatrics and maternity were established using the experience of the Child Bereavement Trust (CBT). Evaluation showed that staff welcomed the informal support and teaching for themselves, as well as support for families; 67% of staff who returned questionnaires felt care for bereaved families had improved as a result of the posts. Many felt that there had been a positive effect on staff retention and stress levels.
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Serogroup B Neisseria meningitidis is a frequent cause of invasive meningococcal disease, yet there are no effective vaccines suitable for routine immunisation. Limited efficacy has been shown with meningococcal outer membrane vacccines in children 4 years and older. Here we review the status of current research and consider new approaches to development of meningococcal serogroup B vaccines.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study Clinical Trial
Two administration methods for inhaled salbutamol in intubated patients.
To compare serum concentrations and effects on respiratory mechanics and haemodynamics of salbutamol administered by small volume nebuliser (SVN) and metered dose inhaler (MDI) plus spacer. ⋯ Serum concentrations and effects on respiratory mechanics and haemodynamics of salbutamol were comparable with the two administration methods under the conditions studied. Future studies are needed to determine the most effective and safe combination of dose and administration method of inhaled salbutamol in mechanically ventilated infants and children.
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Practice Guideline Case Reports Guideline
Bereavement support following sudden and unexpected death: guidelines for care.
Dealing with families who have suffered a sudden and unexpected death is a skill that may be needed by any paediatrician. Offering a bereavement follow up meeting to such families is part of accepted practice and is perceived to be of value in helping the family to come to terms with the loss. ⋯ We have reviewed our experience over the past five years following up the families of 51 children who have died suddenly and unexpectedly in our regional PICU. In doing this we have identified five key elements that we suggest are essential to a successful follow up meeting, and have supported this with case studies as illustration.