Implementation of Specimen Collection Protocol for Neonates with Persistent Hypoglycemia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
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Authors
Downs, Samantha
Issue Date
2024-05-09
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Manuscript
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Abstract
Objective - The purpose of this quality improvement project was to assist bedside staff with identifying specific laboratory testing or protocol for neonates with persistent hypoglycemia in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Background - Hypoglycemia can be expected during the first few hours of an infant’s life, but those with risk factors are more susceptible to persistent hypoglycemia. For timely diagnosis and intervention to avoid neurological sequalae, providers and bedside staff must work together to recognize characteristics of persistent hypoglycemia. At Children’s Nebraska, a Level IV NICU, the challenge of efficiently obtaining laboratory specimens for hypoglycemia infants was identified.
Methods – Participants included bedside clinical staff and patients in the NICU. An algorithm encompassing current AAP and PES guidelines and additional tests requested by endocrinology medical staff for specimen collection and resources regarding specimen collection was implemented. Bedside staff completed education and a pre-/post-survey to assess perceived knowledge, and a chart review of current and retrospective NICU patients whom required follow up testing after persistent hypoglycemia episodes was completed.
Results - Six infants experienced persistent hypoglycemia during the data collection period, but all infants did not receive proper follow-up testing. Therefore, focus of this study transitioned to clinical nursing staff. An increase in knowledge of persistent hypoglycemia and confidence in gathering specimens was observed.
Conclusion - Further data collection to include a large patient sample size is needed to assess timeliness of specimen collection for patients, but the success of nursing staff increasing their perceived knowledge is invaluable to diagnosis and provision of efficient, quality care.
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Publisher
Creighton University
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Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University