Use of polyethylene glycol in children less than 3 years of age

Chronic constipation is extremely common gastrointestinal problem in children. Polyethylene glycol [PEG] has been shown to be effective for both disimpaction and maintenance treatment in older children with chronic constipation. Literature review was carried out using Medline via PubMed [1950 to 2010], Cinahl [1982 - 2010] and Embase [1974 to 2010] to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PEG in infants and children less than 3 years of age. There were no relevant reviews in the Cochrane Library. Only 5 relevant studies were found for children in the age group below 3 years. Pooled analysis of all the studies showed a statistically significant difference in the stool frequency before and after treatment with polyethylene glycol [p < 0.001]. Although, limited published evidence to date supports its use in terms of safety and efficacy, larger randomized controlled trials are needed especially in young infants to substantiate the evidence

Retention of knowledge of the paediatric life support guidelines

Paediatric Life Support [PLS] courses are thought to significantly increase knowledge of paediatric resuscitation for all professional groups. PLS and Newborn Life Support [NLS] guidelines were revised and updated in 2005. In a telephonic survey, the retention and awareness of the changes in PLS guidelines were evaluated among 100 junior paediatric doctors. Overall, second on-call doctors tended to score higher than the first on-call doctors [score 6.55 +/- 2.25 vs. 5.89 +/- 2.17 respectively, p = 0.062]. Doctors who attended PLS courses after 2005 tended to have higher scores. There is a need to streamline formalised regular updates [e.g. annual online written multiple choice questions] and in-house rehearsals using mock emergency scenarios at local, regional and national level