Clinical training in self-regulation and practical pediatric hypnosis: what pediatricians want pediatricians to know.

A survey was taken of graduates of the Society for Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics' (SDBP) Pediatric Hypnosis Course to describe the impact of the course on participants' practical knowledge of self-regulation and hypnosis, the acquisition through direct experience of a realistic understanding of hypnosis, their estimation of the value of the course to their practice of pediatrics, their use of techniques learned, what they would communicate to peers in pediatrics about training in this area, and their beliefs concerning barriers to professional interest in learning hypnotic techniques for primary care. Forty-eight percent (126) of course graduates responded to the survey. Sixty-five percent of these were physicians; almost all were pediatricians. The overwhelming positive response of these pediatricians to the value of the course (4.4 on a scale of 5), the utility of hypnosis, its ease of use, and its practicality for primary care were conveyed richly in survey comments. Sixty-three percent reported that their practice satisfaction increased as a result of this training, and 64% recommended a course like this to all general pediatricians. Course graduates were concerned that the widespread mythology and strong feelings surrounding the term "hypnosis" eclipsed its empirical validation and its practical uses and was a significant barrier to interest in learning hypnotic techniques; 75% thought that the term should be de-emphasized in continuing medical education communications.

Diaper choice. Too costly to bury.

Diaper choice (cloth vs. disposable) has become a controversial issue with increased public concern for the environment. One hundred and twenty-four consecutive mothers were surveyed during the postpartum period about diaper choice. Six percent reported physician/nurse discussion of diaper choice during prenatal care. Seventy-seven percent planned to use disposable diapers only. Twenty-two percent planned to use cloth diapers or a combination of cloth and disposable diapers. Major reasons for choice of disposables included convenience, avoidance of safety pins and cleanliness. Mothers selecting cloth or a combination cited environmental concerns, low cost and cleanliness as reasons for their choice. Factors found to be significantly associated with choice of cloth or combination were older maternal age, use of cloth with other children, and perception that disposables are more expensive. No significant association could be demonstrated between diaper choice and several demographic variables, breastfeeding, or knowledge of the environmental impact of disposables. An educational intervention promoting the use of cloth diapers did not influence diaper choice at two months. Most mothers have made a diaper choice by the time an infant is born. Providers of prenatal care seldom discuss diaper choice with pregnant women. An educational intervention to promote choice of cloth diapers had no effect on the diaper choices made by our population.