Bmc Pediatr
-
Comparative Study
Dosing variability in prescriptions of acetaminophen to children: comparisons between pediatricians, family physicians and otolaryngologists.
To estimate the extents of dosing variability in prescriptions of acetaminophen to children among pediatricians, family physicians and otolaryngologists. ⋯ In acetaminophen prescriptions to children, pediatricians had a wider variability of dosages and a higher ratio of liquid preparations than family physicians and otolaryngologists. Further investigations can be undertaken to estimate the accuracy of dosing variability as an indicator of prescribing quality. Besides, child-suitable drug preparations should be promoted to ensure patient safety.
-
Comparative Study
What is the easier and more reliable dose calculation for iv phenytoin in children at risk of developing convulsive status epilepticus, 18 mg/kg or 20 mg/kg?
With the Convulsive Status Guidelines due for renewal, we wondered if a phenytoin dose of '20 mg/kg' would be easier to calculate correctly and therefore safer than the current '18 mg/kg'. An educational exercise in dose calculation was therefore undertaken to assess ease of calculation. ⋯ We recommend that the future guidelines should suggest iv Phenytoin at 20 mg/kg rather than 18 mg/kg. This will make the calculation easier and reduce the risk of significant errors.