Mislabeled units of umbilical cord blood detected by a quality assurance program at the transplantation center.

We instituted procedures to check the identity of cord blood unit provided for transplantation by carrying out ABO and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing of the thawed units before transplantation. ABO typing is done using standard techniques. Rapid HLA class I serology is with monoclonal antibody trays (One Lambda Inc) using standard incubations.

Young people and sexuality: consent and confidentiality.

Coping with consent and confidentiality issues relating to teenage sexual health can be challenging for nurses. Kathy French explains why it is vital that all those involved with young people have the knowledge and competence to deal with questions concerning consent for treatment, have regular training in child protection principles and are familiar with local policies.

In strictest confidence.

ONE OF THE MOST fundamental principles of healthcare ethics and law is that treatment should only be given with patients' consent.

Emergency contraception.

The authors outline practical issues related to emergency contraception.