Objective: To ascertain the training and knowledge of paediatric resuscitat
ion amongst all paediatric residents in New Zealand.
Method: A validated national telephone survey.
Results: interviews were conducted with 96 out of a possible 109 paediatric
residents. Most had been qualified less than 5 years and a third had recei
ved some training in paediatric resuscitation in the last year. The initial
dose of intravenous adrenaline was known by 61% but only 10% knew the reco
mmended ten-fold increase in subsequent doses. Recognition of the importanc
e of cervical spine management in trauma was poor. Correct resuscitation fl
uids and volumes were selected by 90%, though infusion rates were frequentl
y too slow. Residents with paediatric qualifications and greater experience
scored significantly higher.
Conclusion: Many junior paediatric staff are inadequately prepared for resu
scitating children. We believe improved regular training is required and th
at the introduction of a nation-wide Advanced Paediatric Life Support cours
e, subsequent to the completion of this survey, will lead to improved stand
ards. Its effectiveness needs to be audited.