Gynecologic examination of the prepubertal girl
March 1st 1999A gentle, patient approach is important when examining a prepubertal girl. Pay special attention to anatomic and pathophysiologic differences in the child. Emphasize setting the stage to make the examination a positive experience for your young patient.
Three technologies for taming otitis media
March 1st 1999Every day pediatricians must diagnose middle ear disease and decide whether to prescribe antibiotics. To help meet this challenge, consider using the technologies described here--tympanometry, spectral gradient acoustic reflectometry, and distortion product otoacoustic emissions audiometry.
Providing emergency contraception in the office
March 1st 1999Physicians have known for three decades that taking high doses of oral contraceptive pills afterunprotected intercourse can prevent ovulation and implantation. Isn't it time you considered offering adolescent patients this effective means of avoiding unintended pregnancy?
Viral croup: Current diagnosis and treatment
February 1st 1999Croup sometimes resembles more serious disease, and management options range from home treatment with mist to PICU admission. The authors explain how to recognize viral croup, review the latest studies on when to use nebulized or systemic steroids, and suggest common-sense criteria for hospitalization.
What to tell parents about circumcision
February 1st 1999Whether to circumcise a newborn son is one of the first decisions parents must make for their child. Pediatricians can help them sort through the confusion and controversy surrounding the issue by providing accurate information and answers to their questions.
Managing acute diarrhea: What every pediatrician needs to know
February 1st 1999Despite promising developments such as the new rotavirus vaccine, acute diarrhea won't disappear from pediatric practice any time soon. This straightforward strategy for office management rests on the cornerstones of oral rehydration and continued feeding.
Infants with misshapen skulls: When to worry
February 1st 1999With more babies being put to sleep in the supine position, pediatricians increasingly are seeing infants whose skulls are flattened in back. You need to distinguish these children-- whose "flat heads" merit mainly parental reassurance--from the occasional child whose misshapen skull calls for referral and surgical intervention.