ASSESSMENT OF RESPIRATORY RATE AND CHEST INDRAWING IN CHILDREN WITH ARI BY PRIMARY-CARE PHYSICIANS IN EGYPT

In a baseline study for training purposes, two indicators of acute res piratory infections (the respiratory rate (RR) and chest indrawing) we re assessed by Ministry of Health physicians in Egypt using a WHO test videotape. Chest indrawing, as defined by the WHO Acute Respiratory I nfections (ARI) programme, was not widely recognized by current health personnel. Viewing a WHO training videotape led to significantly more correct assessments of chest indrawing compared with a group that had not viewed this videotape. The accuracy of using a timer versus a wat ch, and a 30-second versus 60-second counting interval was also evalua ted. Rates counted over 60 seconds were more accurate than 30-second c ounts although the difference between them was not clinically signific ant. Counting of rates using timers with audible cues was comparable t o using watches with second hands. Careful training of primary health workers in the assessment of RR and chest indrawing is essential if th ese clinical findings are to be used as reliable indicators in pneumon ia treatment algorithms.