Normative data for the F(p) scale of the MMPI-2: implications for clinical and forensic assessment of malingering.

Data from several clinical samples and the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory--2 standardization group are presented to familiarize the reader with response patterns of different groups on a new validity scale designed to assist in the identification of exaggeration or fabrication of psychological disturbance. Sensitivity-specificity analyses are included along with suggestions for use of the F(p) Scale with other validity scales. Cautions about setting single cutoff scores are also discussed.

Poisoning due to ingestion of Veratrum viride (false hellebore).

We present six cases of poisoning due to ingestion of Veratrum viride (false hellebore) and review the physiology of veratrum alkaloids. Significant bradycardia and hypotension can occur after intoxication by veratrum plants, which grow widely in swampy areas of the eastern and western United States. Nausea and vomiting also occur typically after ingestion. Atropine is the mainstay of therapy, but pressors may be required to maintain blood pressure. Cases of veratrum poisoning have not been widely reported in the emergency medicine literature.

Sexual abuse of children--a hospital-based study.

Eighty-eight cases of suspected sexual abuse of a child were investigated at Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital during 1985. Twenty cases of rape, 15 of incest and 7 of sexual interference were confirmed; but 47% of cases remained unconfirmed. All social strata were affected and victims ranged from 10 months to 13 years in age. An increase in the numbers of victims seen is ascribed to the vigilance of a child abuse team. Implementation of the Child Care Act No. 74 of 1983, which makes notification of suspected abuse compulsory, will inundate social welfare agencies with cases for investigation. Community-based studies of child abuse are needed to plan necessary expansion of staff.

The prophylaxis of hepatitis B infection.

Hepatitis B is a common viral infection that is increasing in incidence. The emergency physician is often responsible for administering prophylactic measures against hepatitis B infection to hospital employees who have sustained percutaneous exposure to blood or blood products and to members of the community who come to the emergency department because of exposure to hepatitis B. Therefore, the emergency physician must be familiar with the current data on the safety and efficacy of available prophylactic measures, hepatitis B immune globulin and hepatitis B vaccine, and any protocols for hepatitis B prophylaxis in effect in the institution. The data supporting current recommendations for hepatitis B prophylaxis are reviewed, and a sample protocol is given.