The thought of a needle pricking their tiny bodies distresses sick kids and sends shivers to their moms who hate to see their babies suffering. The good news however is, there could be a better way to treat sick kids, especially those suffering from pnuemonia.
A study was conducted by researchers at the University of Nottingham involving more than 240 children in UK hospitals over a period of 21 months. Half of the kids suffering from pneumonia were given a week of oral antibiotics and the other half received antibiotics intravenously. It was found that kids who were given oral antibiotics suffered less pain and required less oxygen therapy and were back on their feet faster than those who were given injections.
This is good news for children who hate injections; good news for parents whose children will spend less time in hospital; good news for paediatricians who hate sticking needles in children and good news for the NHS, as fewer beds will be occupied and the treatment is cheaper.
says Professor Stephenson who was a part of the study team.
The researchers therefore suggest that injections of antibiotics may be unnecessary and could be replaced with oral doses of the medicine in the majority of cases.
So, moms and kids cheer up now – no more ooh, aah and ouch!
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