Gulf Journal of Medical Sciences

Effectiveness of Rocuronium bromide: An assessment

2025-12-22T11:43:28+00:00

The study focuses on succinylcholine, a commonly used muscle relaxant for pediatric patients, and rocuronium, a newer non-depolarizing muscle relaxant. The objective was to evaluate the onset time, progression, and duration of muscle relaxation, as well as tracheal intubation conditions for both drugs. This randomized, double-blind study was conducted on 50 pediatric patients aged 2 to 6 years, classified as ASA grade I and II, who underwent surgeries lasting less than 30 minutes. Patients received either intravenous rocuronium (0.9 mg/kg) or succinylcholine (1.5 mg/kg) following premedication with fentanyl (1 µg/kg) and thiopentone (5 mg/kg). Neuromuscular blockade was assessed by measuring the twitch response of the adductor pollicis longus muscle after supra-maximal stimulation of the ulnar nerve. An independent, blinded anesthetist evaluated the tracheal intubation conditions one minute after drug administration and then every 15 seconds until successful intubation. The onset time and degree of neuromuscular blockade were also recorded during the procedure.

Keywords: Neuromuscular Relaxant, Pediatric Patients, Succinylcholine, Rocuronium, TOF Guard, Intraoperative Pressure.

Investigation of bacterial UTI in Lahore, Pakistan; Extent, causes, and demographic factors

2025-12-22T11:52:14+00:00

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that affects different parts of the urinary system, including both the upper and lower tracts. The upper urinary tract consists of the kidneys and ureters, whereas the lower tract includes the bladder, urethra, and, in males, the prostate. When the infection occurs in the upper tract, it is referred to as a kidney infection, while an infection in the lower tract is known as cystitis or a bladder infection. UTIs are primarily caused by bacteria or fungi. This study aimed to investigate the bacterial causes of UTIs in Pakistan, with a focus on identifying the appropriate antibiotics, assessing epidemiological patterns—particularly among high-risk groups—and analyzing the infection rate based on gender and age. The research methodology involved collecting urine samples in sterile containers for culture and sensitivity testing. Various biochemical tests were conducted to isolate the organisms, and antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) was performed using the disk diffusion method. A total of 968 urine samples were collected and analyzed, revealing a UTI positivity rate of 25.10% (243 out of 968 patients). Escherichia coli (E. coli) was identified as the most common bacterial cause of UTIs, followed by Enterococcus, Proteus, Klebsiella, Staphylococcus, and Enterobacter species. The findings indicated that UTIs were more prevalent in females than in males. Furthermore, it was more prevalent in higher age groups including 50 to 60 and above 60 years. Among the tested antibiotics, tetracycline showed the highest resistance, while chloramphenicol was found to be the most effective.

Keywords: Urinary Tract Infection, Epidemiology, Etiology, Treatment.

Preference of contraceptive method among Nigerian Women

2025-12-23T17:19:04+00:00

There are various methods of contraception, and choosing the right one is a significant decision. It is essential to initiate appropriate contraception before the first menstrual cycle following an abortion. As part of post-abortion care, it is generally important to provide individuals and couples with information on available treatments, potential complications, and counseling related to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This observational study was conducted in a hospital located in the city of Abuja, Nigeria, involving a sample of 136 patients. The findings indicate that illiterate women, along with those who have more than one living son or four or more children, tend to prefer permanent contraceptive methods. The study also revealed that the choice of contraception is influenced by various demographic factors, such as the gender of living children and education level. Additionally, the desire to have a male child also impacts family planning decisions. The findings have implications for public health policy makers.

Keywords: Abortion, Post-abortion Contraception, Contraception, Nigeria, Illiteracy, Rural Areas.

Evaluation of Risperidone: A study on selected patients in Peshawar, Pakistan

2025-12-23T17:26:14+00:00

Risperidone is classified as an atypical antipsychotic and is recognized as an effective treatment for psychotic disorders in adults. However, there is limited knowledge regarding its use in young children. This study aimed to assess the safety profile of risperidone in children under five years old who were receiving treatment for behavioral issues linked to various childhood disorders. The study was conducted in a hospital in Peshawar, Pakistan. Diagnoses of common childhood disorders, particularly those associated with disruptive behavioral problems, were made using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV). Symptom severity and improvement were measured using the Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) and Clinical Global Impression-Improvement (CGI-I) scales. Informed consent was obtained from the children's parents before initiating risperidone treatment. A total of 10 patients were included in the study, with the following diagnoses: Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (n=3), Global Developmental Delay (n=2), and CP with epilepsy (n=5). Baseline CGI scores ranged from 5 to 6, while endpoint scores were between 1 and 2. Initial assessments, including lipid profiles, fasting blood sugar levels, and electrocardiograms (ECGs), were recorded and compared before and after starting risperidone treatment. The prescribed dose ranged from 0.5 to 2 mg per day. The most common side effects observed were sedation and weight gain in a few patients. No life-threatening adverse effects were reported. Based on the findings, risperidone appears to be well tolerated in children under five years of age over a one-year period, demonstrating improvements in target symptoms .

Keywords: Young Children, Risperidone, Safety, Efficacy.

A general review of community based comprehensive mental healthcare in African context

2026-01-05T07:16:49+00:00

This paper provides a general overview of community based mental healthcare concept in African context. The study draws on existing literature on the issue specific to African context but also add literature from other contexts such as Western countries. The key feature highlighted by the review of existing studies in African context is that mental healthcare requires involvement of community, respect to local culture, and consideration of other factors such as religion. Furthermore, the study also discussed the role of technology in delivering mental healthcare service to community.

Keywords: Mental Health, Community, Challenges, Africa, Developing Country.