Pediatric nursing
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During a 2-year period from 2004 and 2005, emergency departments treated over 1,500 children under the age of 2 years for adverse events related to over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medication use; these incidents include 3 infant deaths. The risk of overdose, incorrect dosing and adverse events is increased in young children due to the greater number of colds they acquire each year. Lack of evidence to support the use of OTC medications in young children is well documented in the literature; however, people continue to use OTC medications with young children. ⋯ Recommended care and treatment for the common cold includes symptomatic treatment. This article presents and reviews the available evidence regarding the use of OTC cough and cold medications for pediatric healthcare providers. This review of the evidence will be helpful for healthcare providers to minimize risks to young children who intentionally or unintentionally ingest these medications and to educate child caregivers regarding proper use of OTC cough and cold medications with children.
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Creation of a registered nurse-administered nitrous oxide sedation program for radiology and beyond.
Children undergoing urethral catheterization for urologic imaging under existing sedation practices were identified as an underserved patient population. Using a multidisciplinary approach, a registered nurse (RN)-administered nitrous oxide sedation program was developed to meet the needs of these children. Program development required delineation of RN scope of practice, evaluation of equipment, formulation of an educational program, and compliance with occupational safety standards. ⋯ Ongoing evaluation continues to confirm patient and environmental safety. The nitrous oxide program has expanded to provide sedation for additional tests in radiology as well as in other hospital departments. By implementing an RN-administered nitrous oxide program, children's access to this sedative/analgesic agent is increased.
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The purpose of this study was to describe the quality of care provided before, at the time of, and following the death of an infant, child, or adolescent from the perspective of the parent, using a newly developed survey. ⋯ There is room for improvement in the end-of-life care provided to infants, children and youth, and their families.
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Spanish speaking children with cancer were asked to describe their pain during the previous week prior to an oncology clinic appointment. Data showed that 41% of the children were experiencing pain and the overall mean pain intensity rating among these children was 5.7 +/- 2.7. ⋯ Some children experienced pain that was unrecognized and undetected, and therefore were not receiving medications. To minimize the risk of under-treatment of pain, children and parents may be taught to use the Spanish version of the Adolescent Pediatric Pain Tool to communicate the child's pain to clinicians.