Indian journal of pediatrics
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The debate concerning the choice of crystalloids or colloids for resuscitation of the critically ill child is still unsettled. Moreover, the use of albumin in critically ill patients has been increasingly questioned because of the lack of clear-cut advantages over crystalloids as well as the concern for cost and the very minor risk of infection. ⋯ There may be niche areas such as hypoalbuminic states, cirrhosis and burns where albumin may have distinct benefits. Alternatively synthetic colloids may be useful, however, concerns about coagulation problems and organ dysfunction persists.
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The dramatic advances that have taken place in recent years in the care of sick and premature infants also have been matched by a similar increase in the use of blood transfusion therapy. Haematological features indicate that a newborn has a blood volume of 85-125 ml/kg the foetal haemoglobin is 60-85% and average Hb in full term infant is 18 gm/dl. By 2-3 months it falls to 11-12 g/dl the main cause of anemia are iron poor diet, weaning diets recurrent or chronic infections and hemolytic episodes in malarious areas. ⋯ Administration 1 RDE/pack per 2.5 kg single dose of fresh platelets less than 24hrs which contains 55 x 10(9) cells. This also contributes fresh plasma so is useful for coagulation defects also, though there is a risk of CMV and GVHD due to leucocyte contamination. Granulocyte concentrate; Gravity leucopheresis-1:8 ratio of 60 ml of 6% HES made to stand for 1hr.
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Diaper dermatitis, also know as nappy rash, is an inflammation of the skin covered by nappy. It probably results due to an interaction of multiple factors like increased wetness, elevated pH due to urine, fecal enzymes and microorganisms under the nappy. It manifests as an erythematous rash occurring on the convex surfaces of skin under the nappy. ⋯ The superabsorbent disposable diapers are known to reduce the incidence of diaper dermatitis. Barrier creams to protect the infant's skin and mild topical corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation are mainstays of therapy. The incidence and severity can be reduced by keeping the skin dry under the nappy and protected from irritants and infections.
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Status Epilepticus (SE) is a medical emergency and requires prompt and aggressive treatment. Stabilization of airway, breathing and circulation and expeditious termination of seizures are immediate goals. Intravenous benzodiazepines-diazepam, midazolam or lorazepam and phenytoin are the first line drugs recommended for termination of seizures. ⋯ Mortality and morbidity are highest with SE associated with CNS infections, which is the most important cause of SE in our country. The outcome depends on the underlying etiology, age, rapidity of SE and adequacy of care. Adherence to a time-framed protocol in the emergency department helps in improving the final outcome.
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Every 5 years the American Heart Association (AHA) updates the Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC). The ECC Guidelines 2000 incorporates all the current consensus of experts, from not only a variety of disciplines, but also a variety of countries and cultures and is evidence based. The new Guidelines emphasize interventions to reduce the risk of sudden deaths, early identification of respiratory failure and shock and implementation of Advanced Life Support (ALS) to treat respiratory and cardiac arrest.