American journal of diseases of children (1960)
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One hundred fifty families who were seen in the pediatric outpatient clinics at The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, were surveyed to learn about firearm possession in the home and its hazards to children. Thirty-eight percent of these families kept at least one gun in their home. ⋯ We identified demographic characteristics of at-risk families and considered national statistics for gun safety. It was concluded that household firearms pose a significant risk to children and that intervention by physicians could help reduce this public health problem.
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To obtain epidemiologic data and information on the probable causes and severity of bicycle-related injuries, we interviewed all patients with such trauma. Between April 1 and Oct 1, 1983, 520 children presented to the Emergency Department of The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia with trauma related to two-wheeled nonmotorized bicycles. The ages of the patients ranged from 1 to 18 years (mean, 8.7 years), and most (72%) were males. ⋯ Accidents that occurred in the street or involved cars were associated with a greater number of serious and multiple injuries. The infrequent use of protective equipment and minimal safety instructions received by the patients in this study suggest that many bicycle-related injuries are preventable. Education of parents and children is recommended to improve bicycle safety.
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Comparative Study
Adequate illumination for otoscopy. Variations due to power source, bulb, and head and speculum design.
To determine the working condition of otoscopes used in our community to diagnose middle-ear disease in children, we examined 221 otoscopes located in a hospital clinic, four emergency rooms, and the private offices of 96 physicians. The light output of each unit was measured in "as is" condition and then remeasured after a new lamp and, when possible, a new battery had been placed in the unit. A light output of 100 foot-candles or more was judged optimal for clinical otoscopy. ⋯ Almost one third of physicians reported changing otoscope bulbs less often than every two years, and several did not know how to replace the bulb. Almost half of the 93 rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries inspected were outdated, but even these "expired" batteries provided adequate power when fully charged. Office otoscopes should be maintained properly to ensure optimal performance.