RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Controlled trial of standard pad and bell alarm against mini alarm for nocturnal enuresis. JF Archives of Disease in Childhood JO Arch Dis Child FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd and Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health SP 651 OP 656 DO 10.1136/adc.64.5.651 VO 64 IS 5 A1 K E Fordham A1 S R Meadow YR 1989 UL http://adc.bmj.com/content/64/5/651.abstract AB Fifty six children aged from 6-16 years who wet their beds at night were entered into a controlled trial of two alarm devices: a traditional alarm using a wet sensor mat on the bed attached to an alarm bell out of reach of the child, and a mini alarm system incorporating a tiny perineal wet sensor attached to a small alarm worn on the child's clothing. A quota allocation system ensured comparability between the two treatment groups. The children were encouraged to use the alarm for four months. Both alarms were equally effective in helping children to become dry. There was no significant difference between the number of children unable to comply with treatment or to be helped by each alarm. The rate of acquisition of dryness was similar for the two groups. The traditional standard alarm was sturdier, more dependable, and easier to maintain, but the mini alarm had some advantages, particularly for girls. Both types of alarm are recommended for general use.