Can clinical signs predict hypoxaemia in Papua New Guinean children with moderate and severe pneumonia?

Authors: Laman, Moses; Ripa, Paulus; Vince, John; Tefuarani, Nakapi

Source: Annals of Tropical Paediatrics: International Child Health, Volume 25, Number 1, March 2005 , pp. 23-27(5)

Publisher: Maney Publishing

Buy & download fulltext article:

Price: $48.00 plus tax (Refund Policy)

Or sign up for a free trial

Free trial available!

Abstract:

Pulse oximetry was performed on 77 children admitted with acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRI) to the children's ward in Port Moresby General Hospital, Papua New Guinea over a 4-month period in 2002. Clinical findings were correlated with different levels of hypoxaemia, <93%, <90% and <85%. Cyanosis, head nodding and drowsiness were good predictors of hypoxia but lacked sensitivity. Decisions to use oxygen based on these signs would therefore result in a significant number of children with hypoxia not receiving oxygen. Pulse oximetry is the best indicator of hypoxaemia in children with ALRI and, although relatively expensive, its use might be cost-effective in controlling oxygen requirements.

Document Type: Research Article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/146532805X23317

Affiliations: Discipline of Child Health, Division of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Papua New Guinea

Publication date: 2005-03-01

More about this publication?