Screening for hepatitis B during pregnancy. Awareness of current recommendations among Washington hospitals.

Acute care hospitals in Washington State that reported births (n = 77) were surveyed regarding their awareness of and compliance with the Centers for Disease Control recommendations for hepatitis B screening of pregnant women. Of these, 62 hospitals (81%) were aware of the recommendations and 39 (51%) routinely screened pregnant women who did not have a history of prenatal care at the time of delivery. In all, 68 hospitals (88%) had hepatitis B vaccine and 54 (70%) had hepatitis B immune globulin available on site. Despite awareness of the current recommendations for hepatitis B screening, barriers exist that prevent many hospitals from fully implementing them.

Results of school screening for scoliosis in the San Juan Unified School District, Sacramento, California.

Annual routine school examination for scoliosis has been established in the San Juan Unified School District. Additionally, several parochial schools and other schools in the county or nearby towns have expressed interest in such a program. A rapid, effective method, taking no more than 30 seconds per child, has been used to detect spinal curvature. The program is beneficial for those identified with scoliosis, because early detection, followed by proper treatment, can prevent major surgery. The need for careful school nurse follow-up must be emphasized. A standing x-ray and evaluation by a qualified physician are imperative. If scoliosis is diagnosed, the school nurse can be a very effective contact in assisting the students by discussing exercise or brace care and by providing encouragement and general supportive help.