SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE December 11 (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Nuestra Señora de Candelaria University Hospital (Tenerife) has introduced a pilot initiative aimed at postponing the onset of type 1 diabetes in siblings of children who are already affected by the condition.
Juana Rosa Espino, a paediatric nurse and diabetes expert at La Candelaria Hospital, highlighted during the ‘III Pediatric Nursing Conference’ that screening is conducted to assess the presence of certain antibodies associated with the illness.
“In the event of a positive result,” she explained, “we initiate fundamental education on healthy lifestyle practices; however, if two antibodies are present, we consider the possibility of administering intravenous treatment for a duration of one week.”
This approach has been shown to “confirm the deferral of the condition for at least two years, along with its physical and psychological repercussions for both the patient and the family,” she added.
At the gathering, the significance of multidisciplinary care for children and effective coordination with Primary Care was underscored.
To further this aim, professionals from these sectors provided direct presentations detailing their method for addressing childhood obesity within the Canary Islands, as well as the achievements of the current vaccination programme.
In the initial segment of the day, the Pediatric Nursing Teaching Unit explored new generations and perspectives.
In this context, experts examined techniques such as subcutaneous administration, the ketogenic diet in refractory epilepsy, and frenectomy for the treatment of ankyloglossia.
Following this, specialists in Pediatric Nursing and Physiotherapy discussed the current challenges related to childhood obesity in the Canary Islands, advocating for collaborative efforts across disciplines.
The various sensory strategies for daily interactions with newborns through occupational therapy were also emphasised, alongside a study examining the prevalence of dependency-related injuries within the neonatal population at a tertiary hospital, according to a statement from the Ministry of Health.
With regards to vaccinations, in addition to discussing the Healthy Child Programme in Primary Care, experiences and insights were shared regarding the application of virtual reality for managing pain and anxiety prior to venipuncture.
To conclude the conference, representatives from the Pequeno Valiente Foundation informed attendees about their professional roles and how they provide comprehensive support to families of paediatric oncology patients, whilst also demonstrating the positive relationships they maintain with all involved service professionals.
