The New Zealand medical journal
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To assess the incidence of otorrhoea after swimming in patients with grommets in situ, and discover whether protecting the ears from water affects this occurrence. ⋯ There appears to be a low incidence of otorrhoea during summer in children who swim with grommets in situ. There is no evidence that protecting the ears from water entry confers any benefit as far as preventing infection in concerned.
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To identify existing surveillance initiatives and to seek and reach consensus on a national minimum data set for injury surveillance in public hospital emergency departments in New Zealand. ⋯ Injury data collection will, in time become mandatory. However, the promotion of the minimum data set for injury surveillance by health professionals, national organisations and community groups will be essential to ensure its implementation and utilisation for the prevention and control of injuries.
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The aim of the study was to assess the contraceptive knowledge and practices of women attending the abortion service at Epsom day unit, Green Lane Hospital. ⋯ A number of technical problems were identified with condom use. These problems need to be emphasised by sexuality education programmes and contraceptive prescribers. Omitting pills, diarrhoea, vomiting and drug interactions were important causes of pill failure. The seven day rule needs more emphasis when teaching women how to take the pill and when antibiotics are prescribed. Costs were an important barrier to the use of contraception for a significant proportion of women. Section 99 approval should be utilised more readily and the provision of free contraception, especially to low income groups, needs to be urgently explored.
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To review the use, safety and efficacy of continuous regional techniques in children and neonates. ⋯ Major continuous regional techniques in paediatric patients are effective, but because of potential complications, there is a requirement that these blocks be performed, monitored and cared for by staff experienced and trained with these procedures.