New in RHL
Formula milk versus donor breast milk for feeding preterm or low birth weight infants
Feeding preterm and low birth weight infants with formula milk compared to donor breast milk was found to be associated with a higher rate of short-term growth, but no effect was observed on rate of long-term growth or neurodevelopmental outcomes. Formula milk was also associated with a higher incidence of necrotising enterocolitis.
Restricted versus liberal oxygen exposure for preventing morbidity and mortality in preterm or low birth weight infants
The administration of restricted supplemental oxygen compared to unrestricted oxygen in preterm and low birth weight infants significantly reduces the incidence and severity of retinopathy of prematurity, without affecting mortality rates. Further research is required to determine the optimal range of blood oxygen levels.
Task shifting to optimize the role of lay health workers
WHO recognizes task shifting/sharing as an effective, acceptable and feasible strategy for tackling the problem of shortages in the health workforce, which may also reduce inequalities by extending care to underserved populations. Lay health workers are encouraged to take on the role of promoting adequate nutrition, exclusive breastfeeding, and the uptake of other heath-related behaviours and health care services for maternal and newborn health.
High coverage of life-saving interventions not enough
Although there has been a substantial increase in access to health care worldwide, it may not be sufficient to significantly reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. Despite high coverage of essential interventions
(e.g., uterotonics for management of postpartum haemorrhage), 12 out of 29 countries included in a recent WHO study had mortality rates that were two-to-three times higher than expected.
Non-latex versus latex male condoms for contraception
In the trials included in the review, compared with latex condoms, non-latex condoms were more likely to break or slip off during intercourse or withdrawal. However, substantial proportions of study participants reported a preference for non-latex condoms, suggesting that non-latex condoms could be an acceptable alternative for those with a higher need for sensitivity or those who have aversion to latex condoms.
VIDEO: Laparoscopic sterilization with Falope ring and Filshie clip
This video demonstrates the technique of female laparoscopic sterilization with Falope ring and Filshie clip.
VIDEO: Termination of pregnancy with the manual vacuum aspirator
This video demonstrates the technique of termination of early pregnancy with the manual vacuum aspirator.
