Neonatal network : NN
-
Critical congenital heart defects (CCHD) are a subset of congenital heart defects that require acute diagnosis and interventions in order to provide optimal health outcomes for newborns. The incidence of infants with CCHD may be as high as six per 1,000 live births. Pulse oximetry screening is a new tool used in many nurseries to detect the presence of CCHD with high reliability. This article includes an overview of CCHD and the pulse oximetry screen, including the primary and secondary targets, a test algorithm, reliability, cost-effectiveness, limitations, national recommendations, and implications for nurses, particularly their role in the NICU.
-
Neonatal network : NN · Nov 2014
ReviewPain in the neonate: focus on nonpharmacologic interventions.
The assessment and treatment of pain in the neonate, especially preterm neonates, has been a challenge in the NICU for many years. Nurses caring for these vulnerable patients are in a key position to not only recognize when the neonate is experiencing pain but to also work collaboratively with other health care providers in determining the best method to treat and help prevent pain associated with procedures and routine caregiving activities. ⋯ Nurses, by anticipating and reducing both painful procedures and bedside interruptions, along with innovative nonpharmacologic interventions, can dramatically decrease the neonate's exposure to pain and the potential for long-term effects. An overview of nonpharmacologic interventions in the treatment of neonatal pain is provided for NICU nurses to help them effectively reduce their patient's pain and discomfort.
-
Parents of premature infants are grateful for their child's NICU nurse. Take a step onto the parent's side and see the top ten reasons parents are grateful for the nurses, and you might see some surprises.
-
Neonatal network : NN · May 2014
Preventing admission hypothermia in very low birth weight neonates.
Neonatal hypothermia, temperature < 36.5°C, is a major contributor to neonatal mortality and morbidity. hypothermia of preterm infants remains a challenge in the NiCU for many reasons. preterm very low birth weight (VlBW) infants, those infants born <1,500 g, are prone to very rapid heat losses through mechanisms of convection, evaporation, conduction, and radiation. this article reviews current research to reduce and prevent mortality and morbidity from hypothermia in preterm VlBW infants by implementing interventions in the delivery room to minimize heat loss and maintain core body temperatures.