Advances in neonatal care : official journal of the National Association of Neonatal Nurses
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Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a common disease of premature infants. It is characterized by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels in the developing retina and is the leading cause of childhood blindness in developed countries. This article describes a systematic approach to prospectively reduce the incidence of ROP in a newborn intensive care unit (NICU). ⋯ An evidence-based guideline was developed, and education was provided to all direct care providers. We also standardized bedside oxygen delivery equipment and implemented new parameters related to nasal cannula weaning. Rates of ROP, severe ROP, and ROP requiring surgical intervention were reduced by more than 50% during the first year and more than 75% by the end of the second year after implementation of our unit-based program.
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Air transportation, by rotor wing and fixed wing, is a frequent method of neonatal transportation. There are many risks involved in air transportation. ⋯ Air transportation has risks other than vehicle accidents, and increasing altitude encountered in both fixed and rotor wing transportation can cause significant distress to both the transport crew and the patient. Knowledge and awareness of these risks by the flight team can help to alleviate unnecessary risks and complications encountered during air transportation and ensure a safe arrival of both the team and the patient.