Thrombocytopenia in pregnant women who use cocaine

Article Abstract:

Cocaine use may cause low platelet counts in pregnant women. Low platelet counts, or thrombocytopenia, may cause severe bleeding. Researchers studied blood samples from 1,907 pregnant women attending an inner-city prenatal clinic. The rate of thrombocytopenia among women using cocaine was 6.7%, but was only 1.5% among women who said they did not use drugs. The difference was considered significant, as was the number of women with thrombocytopenia. None of the women with thrombocytopenia experienced severe bleeding during labor or delivery. Inner-city women have higher rates of cocaine use, and physicians caring for pregnant inner-city women may need to screen them for thrombocytopenia to avoid bleeding complications. Thrombocytopenia can also be a risk factor when epidural anesthesia is given.

Complications and side effects, Risk factors, Pregnant women, Drug use, Thrombocytopenia, Cocaine

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Preoperative anxiety in children: predictors and outcomes

Article Abstract:

Some children may be more likely to experience anxiety before surgery but may become less anxious over time if they have been counseled in advance of surgery. Researchers evaluated the anxiety level of 163 children ages two through 10 and of their parents while in the preoperative waiting area. Children who had been hospitalized before, were older, had anxious mothers, and did not react well to new situations were more anxious before surgery. Such evaluations may determine which children are most anxious and most in need of preoperative counseling.

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Children in the process of becoming

Article Abstract:

Children may need counseling before health care encounters to help them cope effectively. Preoperative counseling for hospitalized children may help them to cope better and experience less anxiety, while shortening their recovery. Children who have been prepared for certain medical procedures may have better experiences with the health care system, and may take up less staff time. All health care providers, not just psychologists, should know how to prepare children for stressful procedures. Such preparation may increase children's self-esteem.

Editorial

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