Thirty years of the Paediatric Standard Treatment Book

ABSTRACT

The publication of the 8th edition of the Paediatric Standard Treatment Book 30 years after the first edition was introduced in 1975 provided an opportunity to examine the changes in the book's content and composition that have occurred over time. A detailed analysis of all editions of the book was made. The 8th edition is bigger, contains more clinical and guidance topics, and is undoubtedly more complex than the first. Health workers of different levels of training undoubtedly value the book, but there is evidence that it is frequently not used appropriately. The books form an important historical record of the changes in treatment of various clinical conditions that have been driven by alterations in antimicrobial susceptibility and by the emergence of evidence for efficacy. The current book is intricately linked with the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness and the treatments it contains are based on best evidence and practicality. Whilst there are challenges in ensuring that the information in the standard treatment book is accessible, practical and up to date, the book will continue to provide the basis for treatment of the common conditions presenting in children in the future.