About this Activity

Opioid use in paediatric and infant populations requires careful consideration due to differences in metabolism and the associated risks.

Recent guidelines have emphasised the need for tailored dosing strategies, acknowledging that these populations process opioids differently than adults. Healthcare practitioners must be aware of the potential for both underuse and overuse, as well as the risks of adverse effects such as sedation and respiratory depression. 

This Accredited article provides an overview of the different opioid drugs available in South Africa and commonly prescribed for neonates and paediatric patients in the peri-operative period.

It furthermore reviews the recently issued guidelines from the South African Society of Anaesthesiologists, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the European Society for Paediatric Anaesthesiology. Finally, in light of the opioid addiction crisis, we note the situation in sub-Saharan Africa and what practitioners should be aware of.

What You Will Learn

This module intends to provide you with insight into the use of WhatsApp in your practice. On completion, you will:
 

1. Identify the central role of opioids in managing moderate to severe peri-operative pain in neonates and young children

2. Have a high-level understanding of the pharmacokinetic profile of the opioids which are available to South African practitioners

3. Recognise the risks associated with individual opioids, including potency variations and potential fatality when combined with other medications

4. Gain a high-level understanding of the recent guidelines issued by the South African Society of Anaesthesiologists, the European European Society for Paediatric Anaesthesiology and the American Academy of Paediatrics

This activity is Accredited for 2 Level 1 Clinical points. To receive your accreditation points, you must complete both the article and the associated questionnaire. 

HPCSA-registered healthcare professionals
On completion of both activities, HPCSA registered healthcare professionals will receive 2 Level 1 CPD points.
The Medical Education Network will submit a record of your completed activities to the HPCSA at the end of each month. You will receive a notification email from us informing you that this has been done

Non-HPCSA-registered healthcare professionals.
If you are a non-HPCSA registered healthcare professional, this activity may contribute to your accreditation requirements. Please keep a record of your certificate obtained on passing this questionnaire for submission to your respective Registration Council.  For more details regarding how many points you will be awarded, kindly contact your Council directly.

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