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Dear SDN Pediatrics Physicians,
I am a pediatric medical assistant and entering medical student this fall. I am hoping to create a document for my colleagues on how best to execute this very common, very annoying procedure.
It seems my clinic does a thoroughly half-assed job at properly executing this procedure when restraints are required. Some of our physicians seem more skillful with their tools than others. And so on 15 minute appointment times we're supposed to prepare the lavage equipment. Restrain the child--often with incompetent help from parents--apply some cerumen-lytic oil, lavage the ears, etc.
So my questions are:
What is the best restraint technique that is safe for the staff and safe for the patient? The potential for torque exerted on a child's neck is worrisome to me, is there a risk of injury there?
Some of our physicians order this procedure on every cruddy ear, is this appropriate? given the risks of damage to the ear canal, much less the risks of incidental injuries from restraints to all parties?
Any helpful tips appreciated?
Thanks.
I am a pediatric medical assistant and entering medical student this fall. I am hoping to create a document for my colleagues on how best to execute this very common, very annoying procedure.
It seems my clinic does a thoroughly half-assed job at properly executing this procedure when restraints are required. Some of our physicians seem more skillful with their tools than others. And so on 15 minute appointment times we're supposed to prepare the lavage equipment. Restrain the child--often with incompetent help from parents--apply some cerumen-lytic oil, lavage the ears, etc.
So my questions are:
What is the best restraint technique that is safe for the staff and safe for the patient? The potential for torque exerted on a child's neck is worrisome to me, is there a risk of injury there?
Some of our physicians order this procedure on every cruddy ear, is this appropriate? given the risks of damage to the ear canal, much less the risks of incidental injuries from restraints to all parties?
Any helpful tips appreciated?
Thanks.
